Balancing PV generation in low voltage grids with limited data

Reducing energy exchange and power peaks between the low- and medium-voltage grids caused by photovoltaic generation is of great interest for distribution system operators. Two algorithms are developed and tested in a field test: a reactive rule-based controller and a proactive schedule-based controller. Both controllers require only a limited amount of input data and can achieve their goals of reducing energy exchange and power peaks. A detailed analysis shows that the RBC underperforms when PV generation exceeds battery storage capacity or moving clouds cause unpredictably large drops in PV generation. The SBC underperforms when the PV generation forecast is too inaccurate. Improvements are discussed to increase performance further.