In order to adapt to the access of high penetration and large-scale distributed generators (DGs)

the active distribution network (ADN) has become the research trend of current and future smart grids. The influences of DG access

demand-side management and topology changes on the voltage distribution and voltage stability of distribution network in the AND background are reviewed. The reactive power and voltage control method of ADN are summarized from the perspective of centralized and decentralized control. According to an analysis of the current research status

some of the problems and shortcomings of research on reactive power and voltage control method of AND influenced by various factors are briefly treated. Some problems in research on the AND reactive power and voltage control method are pointed out. This work is supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 51377060).