A Review of Voltage Control Strategies for Low-Voltage Networks With High Penetration of Distributed Generation

Abstract

Deterioration of voltage conditions is one of the frequent consequences of connecting an increasing number of photovoltaic sources to the low-voltage (LV) power grid. Under adverse conditions, i.e. low energy consumption and high insolation, microgeneration can cause voltage surges that violate acceptable limits. Research shows that the increase in voltage is the main limitation for connecting new energy microsources to the LV network and forces the reconstruction of the network. An alternative to costly modernizations can be the implementation of appropriate strategies for controlling network operation to maintain the voltage at the required level. The article presents an overview of the methods and concepts of voltage control in a low-voltage network developed so far to mitigate the undesirable phenomenon of voltage boosting. The focus was mainly on local methods—not requiring communication infrastructure—as best suited to the conditions of Polish distribution networks. Gathering the results of many tests and simulations carried out in different conditions and on different models allowed for the formulation of general conclusions and can be a starting point for further research on a control method that can be widely used in the national power system.

Overvoltage Protection of Pv Microinstallations – Regulatory Requirements and Simulation Model

“…In addition, the introduction of such a system will certainly be facilitated by the provisions of the NC RfG code [6,12], which impose on the manufacturers of inverters the need to ensure the possibility of remote disconnection of microinstallations above 10 kW. In order to prevent the necessity to disconnect microinstallations, it is advisable to first implement voltage regulation methods so as not to exceed the permissible limits [3].…”

Przegląd Obecnie Wykorzystywanych Izolowanych Przetwornic Prądu Stałego

“…They are used, among others, in small converters found in mobile phone chargers, through computer power supplies, photovoltaic installations, electric vehicles (EV), EV chargers and large energy storage. At present, micro-photovoltaic installations [17,23], energy storage [27] and electric vehicle chargers [14] process the largest amounts of energy while remaining applications with the most variable load levels [12]. Such characteristics of the converters work require from engineers designing converters to take an un-conventional approach to the subject and to constantly search for the most effective solutions to minimize the burden on the energy system and thus reduce greenhouse gas emissions [29].…”