Impacts of photovoltaics on low voltage networks: a case study for the north west of England

• Published in: 22nd International Conference and Exhibition on Electricity Distribution (CIRED 2013) p. 1419
• Main Authors: Navarro, A, Ochoa, L.F, Mancarella, P, Randles, D
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Stevenage, UK IET 2013
• Subjects: Distribution networks; Monte Carlo methods; Power system planning and layout; Solar power stations and photovoltaic power systems; domestic load; low voltage busbar voltage; low voltage network; power generation planning; power transformers; photovoltaic generation; EN50160 standard; distribution networks; thermal capability; distribution transformer; photovoltaic power systems; asset utilisation; Monte Carlo based technique; photovoltaic impact; photovoltaic location; utilisation factor; voltage impact; Monte Carlo methods; North West of England
• ISBN: 1849197326; 9781849197328
• DOI: 10.1049/cp.2013.1229

This work proposes a Monte Carlo-based technique to assess the impacts of different PV penetrations on a real LV network for the North West of England, considering 5-min resolution models for domestic load and PV generation. The impacts of PV location are analysed through two scenarios based on location: closer to and further from the distribution transformer. Voltage impacts are measured using EN50160 and the thermal capabilities are examined through a utilisation factor. Additionally, the effects of higher LV busbar voltages are also investigated. Results indicate that voltage issues are more constraining than asset utilisation, particularly with clusters closer to the transformer. (4 pages)