Comparative Analysis of HVAC and HVDC Green Corridors for Photovoltaic Integration Overcoming Geographical Constraints

The optimal integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems into existing power grids is a complex issue. While geographical constraints have traditionally posed challenges to optimal PV integration for power system planners and operators, innovative strategies can turn challenges into opportunities. This study takes the IEEE 5-bus system as a case study, introducing an illustrative geographical constraint by allowing a PV installation only near Bus Two. From this constrained scenario, the research investigates broader integration strategies employing the concept of “green corridors“ - dedicated transmission lines that facilitates the efficient transfer of renewable energy from areas with abundance of renewable energy to demand centers, bypassing the immediate geographical limitations. This research evaluates a direct PV connection to Bus Two and contrasts it with eight alternative scenarios. In these scenarios, the PV system, while physically near Bus Two, is electrically connected to each of the other buses in the system. For each bus connection beyond Bus Two, two integration methods are investigated. Once through an HVAC transmission line green corridor and again using an HVDC transmission line green corridor. Both LCC-HVDC and VSC-HVDC transmission technologies have been considered for the HVDC green corridor. The primary objective is to determine the overall power system losses associated with each integration method, and for each configuration. By overcoming geographical constraints, green corridors allow power system planners and operators a higher degree of flexibility when integrating renewable energy systems into power grids.