PV generation in distribution network and its impact on power transformer on-load tap changer operation

This paper describe and present the study on online tap change (OLTC) operation in distribution network in the case of utilizing reactive power capability of PV inverter. The conventional voltage control scheme and the effect of solar PV variation on the voltage profile in distribution network are discussed. Solar resources in the state of Qatar for different seasons and weather condition are presented. Real recorded solar irradiance in specific location in Qatar with 5 minutes interval is used for the simulation analysis. The simulation results shows that OLTC operation varies with different level and type of reactive power injection. Depending on the amount and type of reactive power, the operation of OLTC will either increase or decrease.