Interaction between photovoltaic distributed generation and electricity networks

Abstract

Electricity power systems worldwide have traditionally been designed to a vertically connected scheme characterised by centralised generation. Over the last few decades, several factors have dictated a gradual shift from the central-control approach to a more distributed layout where distributed generation (DG) technologies are effectively integrated and not just connected (appended) to the networks; amongst others liberalisation of electricity markets, security and quality of supply and environmental issues. Photovoltaic powered distributed generation (PV-DG), although still having a much lesser impact than other DG technologies, is increasingly being embedded into electricity distribution networks worldwide within the framework of successful regulatory state and marketing programmes. PV-DG has added values (benefits) for the electricity systems that extend from peak power and load reduction (when deployed close to electricity consumption points) to participation in grid-supporting or grid-forming modes of operation. The question arises as to what the present situation of PV technology is for its optimal integration in distribution networks, whether there are still technical barriers to overcome as well as new opportunities for PV in future renewably supplied electricity systems. This paper presents the current state of knowledge concerning these topics from a European perspective with regard to different grid structures. It also discusses existing standards, new opportunities to provide grid services and research and development needs identified to fully exploit the added-value-and still developing-benefits of PV-DG.

PV self-consumption optimization with storage and Active DSM for the residential sector

“…The presence of PV generation is increasing worldwide, achieving 9.8 GW in Germany and 3.5 GW in Spain of installed power at the end of 2009 (Programe, 2010). Furthermore, PV grid-connected systems offer nowadays solutions to improve grid supply quality and provide grid services, as participation in grid-supporting or grid-forming modes of operation (Caamaño-Martín et al, 2008).…”

Analysis and synthesis of the variability of irradiance and PV power time series with the wavelet transform

“…The integration of large PV plants in the conventional electrical grid must cope with several problems [1]. One of the most important is the variability of the power output of the system due to the irradiance uctuations.…”

Transmission Network Enhancement with Renewable Energy

“…Solar PV penetration levels remain quite limited despite high growth rates of installed capacity in certain countries. For example, in Germany where active programs of PV installation have been successful, about 10 GW of PV were installed by the end of 2009, producing 1.1% (6.6 TWh or 23.76 PJ) of German electrical energy in 2009 [66]. There is concern that severe grid disturbances with strong frequency deviations can be worsened by large amounts of PV systems [63].…”

“…These operations and activities occur along a multitude of time scales, from seconds to years, and include new dispatch strategies for ramp able generation resources, load management, provision of ancillary services for frequency and voltage control, expansion of transmission capacity, utilization of energy storage technologies, and linking of grid operator dispatch planning with weather and resource forecasting [66].…”