Impact of Renewable Integration in Distribution Networks on Static Load Model Parameters

As the integration of distributed renewable generation changes the topology, power flow, impedance and fault levels of the conventional electricity network, load modelling for renewable-rich distribution network has attracted renewed interest. The changes in the load modelling parameters with the increased penetration of renewable generation in the distribution network have yet to be explored. This paper analyzes the changes in static load model parameters due to the integration of renewable generation in the electricity grid. The load modelling parameter has been estimated by tap-changing the on-load tap-changer (OLTC) at a substation transformer in a medium voltage (12.66 kV) distribution network. The IEEE 33 bus radial network is simulated with solar PV and wind generation data in DIgSILENT PowerFactory software platform. This investigation uses distribution system data from regular utility operations and solar PV and wind data over the entire annual cycle to capture the seasonal pattern. The obtained results illustrate the significant impact of the integration of renewable generation on the load characteristic profile and load model parameters.