Comprehensive Modelling Technique to Allow DC Interference Evaluations on Buried Pipeline Systems near Photovoltaic Installations

The main objective of this paper is to present a static modelling approach that allows for simulating the impact of PV interference on a third-party metallic infrastructure that is buried in the nearby vicinity. This is achieved by accounting for the actual field topology of a grounded PV system with respect to the routing of a nearby pipeline. The electrical and material characteristics of all involved elements are also accounted for, in the modelling process. In addition the paper briefly discusses the issue-of PV related-undetected ground dc leakage of sufficient magnitude, which can corrosively interfere with a susceptible pipeline system.