Optimal size selection of step-up transformers in PV plants

Step-up transformers are used to connect large PV plants to the utility network, their sizing being often accomplished only taking into account the PV plant peak power. However, a largely unpredictable power injection on the main grid is obtained if a too large rated power is selected, leading to grid instabilities. This may result in frequent plant shutdowns, while requiring a remarkable reserve power to be provided by conventional generation systems. On the other hand, a too small transformer lead to the creation of a bottleneck, preventing an optimal exploitation of the solar energy. This situation becomes more complex if the introduction of an energy storage system is considered. In the present paper a design technique is proposed to optimally select the step-up transformer, either on conventional PV plants, either on PV plants with energy storage. It is based on the evaluation of initial and operating costs. Moreover, the effects of induced network instabilities are also considered. Taking into account full life costs optimal solutions have been detected according to the network power control capabilities for a 2 MW PV plant.