Distributed Generation Applied to Residential Self-Supply in South America in the Decade 2013–2023: A Literature Review

Abstract

The implementation of residential distributed generation (DG) in South America has shown significant growth in the last decade, driven by increased research on photovoltaics and renewable energy sources. Regulatory policies and business models have been crucial in fostering the adoption of DG in the region, with residential self-supply being the most receptive sector for implementing the concept. This article presents a literature review on DG as applied to residential self-supply in South America by comprehensively analyzing documents published between 2013 and 2023, applying the PRISMA methodology. In total, 37 literature resources have been systematically selected and reviewed to contribute to the identification of trends and developments in the field of DG in the residential sector, as well as to highlight areas that require further research and attention from stakeholders, including policymakers, investors, technology providers, and consumers in the South American context.

Comparative Studies on Load Frequency Control with Different Governors connected to Mini Hydro Power Plant via PSCAD Software

“…These power sources can include renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and micro-hydro systems, as well as conventional fossil fuel-based generators. DG offers numerous benefits, including increased energy efficiency, reduced transmission losses, and improved grid reliability [18]. Additionally, DG promotes energy independence and empowers communities to generate their own clean energy, fostering sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels [19].…”

Optimization of Impedance Relay Placement in Medium-Voltage Electrical Distribution Systems through Clustering Algorithms and Metaheuristics

“…Distributed Generation (DG), such as small-scale power plants, can help address these losses when operated strategically [18]. However, incorrect installation can exacerbate the problem, leading to increased losses and voltage drops.…”

Performance Assessment User Interface to Enhance the Utilization of Grid-Connected Residential PV Systems

“…Figure 1 shows the emerging mechanism of different DGs scales into traditional power networks. One of the most important approaches to integrating renewable energy into existed power networks is the deployment of PV-based distributed generations (PV-DGs) for residential and small-scale private businesses applications [8,9]. Employing PV systems for residential use, at a small scale and medium scale, is discussed by several studies with different points of view.…”

“…The PV solar fraction, or solar-saving fraction, can be exactly defined as the ratio of the user's energy from solar to the total user's consumption, and it is also explained and addressed in [21,22]. Based on the study conducted in [22], improving the solar fraction would enhance the economic feasibility of the PV systems, where One of the most important approaches to integrating renewable energy into existed power networks is the deployment of PV-based distributed generations (PV-DGs) for residential and small-scale private businesses applications [8,9]. Employing PV systems for residential use, at a small scale and medium scale, is discussed by several studies with different points of view.…”