Locational dependence of maximum installable PV capacity in LV networks while maintaining voltage limits

We assess the effects that size and locations of photovoltaic (PV) arrays in a low-voltage (LV) electric power grid have on the maximum installable capacity. The objective is to place and control PVs without violating voltage limits and not require interventions by utilities. Multi-modal control is...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Jenicek, David, Inam, Wardah, Ilic, Marija
Format: Conference Proceeding
Language:English
Subjects:
Integrated circuit modeling
Inverters
Photovoltaic systems
Reactive power
Substations
Voltage control
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Summary:We assess the effects that size and locations of photovoltaic (PV) arrays in a low-voltage (LV) electric power grid have on the maximum installable capacity. The objective is to place and control PVs without violating voltage limits and not require interventions by utilities. Multi-modal control is suggested whereby the PVs deviate from unity power factor and begin to supply reactive power if the voltage limits are approached; the installed capacity need not ever be disconnected. Given such multi-modal control, it is shown that the best location of a large PV farm is at the load located furthest away from the medium voltage step-down transformer. Furthermore, we show that the maximum installable capacity increases if the capacity is distributed as many smaller "rooftop" PVs.
DOI:10.1109/NAPS.2011.6025197