Impact of large-scale integration of distributed photovoltaic with the distribution network

The recent incentivation of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic (PV) systems and deregulation of the electricity market present a major challenge to the design and operation of the conventional power system. This article presents an impact analysis of this game-changing technology distributed on the IEEE 13-bus distribution feeder using actual local demand load profile, temperature and irradiance data. We analyse impacts on active power demand, voltage and component of power losses at various penetration levels. In addition, simulation results quantifying the components of power losses which are load, line and transformer losses are presented. These losses are pivotal considerations for effective distribution system design as it transits from a passive network to an active one. Using the Open source Distribution System Simulator (OpenDSS), results show a significant decrease in active power demand, load and line losses with improvement in voltage profile at various penetration levels.