A methodology for determining the incentive policy for photovoltaic distributed generation that leverages its technical benefits in the distribution system

• Published in: Renewable energy Vol. 199; pp. 474 - 485
• Main Authors: Stecanella, Priscilla A. Juá, Camargos, Ronaldo S.C., Vieira, Daniel, Domingues, Elder G., Ferreira Filho, Anésio de L.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.11.2022
• Subjects: Distribution system; Impacts; Photovoltaic distributed generation; Photovoltaic penetration; Renewable energy incentive policy; Stochastic model; Photovoltaic distributed generation; Stochastic model; Impacts; Photovoltaic penetration; Renewable energy incentive policy; Distribution system
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2022.09.002

Although photovoltaic distributed generation (PVDG) is expanding worldwide, its growth is still relatively small in most countries. Thus, it is necessary to establish appropriate incentive policies that increase the integration of PVDG into the distribution system. The impacts that the adoption of each policy causes must be analyzed to maximize the benefits and minimize the technical problems arising from the integration of PVDG into the grid. In this context, this study proposes a methodology to determine the most appropriate policy to encourage PVDG by observing its technical impacts on the grid. A stochastic model is proposed to determine the technical and financial impacts on voltage levels, technical losses, and peak demand derived from the integration of PVDG. The proposed methodology was applied to dozens of real feeders, seeking to compare the Net Metering (NeM) and the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) policies. The results showed that the NeM policy presented the best performance. Among the two investigated FiT policies, it was verified that the incentive to PVDG with lower powers implies greater benefits. This methodology allows the determination of the most appropriate PVDG incentive policy considering its technical impacts on the grid. •Determination of the most suitable PVDG incentive considering its impacts on the grid.•Determination of technical and financial impacts of PVDG encouraged by public policy.•Stochastic calculation of technical impacts caused by PV distributed generation.•Relation between renewable energy incentive policies and their impacts on the grids.