Hosting Capacity Analysis of Distribution Networks Based on Recent Australian Regulations

Increasing the penetration of distributed energy resources (DER) in Australian power systems and especially small-scale photovoltaics (PV) has significantly impacted the day-to-day operation of distribution networks. As many parts of the network reach their operational limits, system operators impose constraints on customers' exports and/or delay the customers' PV connections. The updated Australian regulatory frameworks require distribution network service providers (DNSPs) to enable customers to export their solar generation and prepare annual expenditure strategies that demonstrate their actions to support DER connection. This necessitates a thorough analysis of the hosting capacity (HC) of the network and performing a cost/benefit analysis of various mitigation techniques. This paper reviews the existing Australian regulations on DER enablement, outlines some practical aspects of performing the HC studies, and presents illustrative case studies for HC analysis.