Effectively utilizing the low-carbon potential of demand-side resources to coordinate with medium- and low-voltage distribution network scheduling

thereby reducing system carbon emissions

is crucial for China’s “dual carbon” strategy. To address this issue

a new low-carbon scheduling method for distribution networks is proposed

considering dynamic carbon potential and demand response. First

the influence of the superior grid’s dynamic carbon potential and distribution network losses on carbon emission flow is analyzed

and accounting models for user-side electricity consumption emissions and network loss emissions are established. Second

an incentive-based demand response model based on dynamic carbon potential is developed. By adjusting low-carbon incentive prices according to time-varying carbon potential

users are guided to regulate flexible loads to reduce electricity-related carbon emissions. Then

a low-carbon scheduling model for distribution networks is created. It balances operational safety and economy

while the distribution network’s dynamic carbon potential guides the demand response to achieve low-carbon and safe system operation at minimal activation cost. Finally

case studies on a modified IEEE 33-node system demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model and method

reducing network losses by 7.3%

daily peak-valley load difference by 11.7%

and carbon emissions by 3.5%.