An evaluation method for smoothing effect on photovoltaic systems dispersed in a large area

PV is expected as a major carbon-free primary energy source which is inevitable to proceed to a carbon-free economy. However, as a variable power source, the large PV's penetration into the power system may cause various kinds of power system operation issues and/or expansion needs. In order to technically-and economically-feasible solution for these issues and needs, it is quite important to quantitatively analyze and evaluate the variation of PV generation. This paper will present the smoothing effect of the total PV generation output in a broad area by means of the maximum output fluctuation as fluctuation index.