Modeling the maximum power output of a distributed PV fleet

Abstract

Abstract In areas with a high (photovoltaic) PV penetration, the installed PV capacity is the decisive factor in network planning. This article discusses meteorological impacts on distribution networks in these areas. The focus thereby is to determine the maximum feed‐in power of a distributed PV fleet. Therefore, a meteorological classification of the situations with maximum feed‐in is presented. With these results, the maximum feed‐in power is calculated for Germany. The maximum feed‐in of a distributed PV fleet is found for clear sky situations with a limit of 85% of the installed standard test condition power. This limit could be confirmed by the analysis of measured PV power feed‐in and its impact on the voltage levels in a distribution grid. The investigations are based on the analysis of data from a very detailed measurement campaign in a distribution grid with very high PV penetration in southern Germany. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.