High-Penetration Grid-Tied Photovoltaics: Analysis of Power Quality and Feeder Voltage Profile

Abstract

More People are Turning to Photovoltaic (PV) technology to supply energy needs as concerns rise about greenhouse gases. Thus, installed PV capacity across the smart grid distribution systems has been rising. However, the high penetration of PVs could affect the operation and planning of distribution networks. To evaluate the impact of PVs connected to the grid, a case study on power quality and voltage profile was conducted using a 1.1-MW ac gridconnected PV power plant in Miami, Florida. As part of the power quality analysis, total harmonic distortion (THD) was explored, and high-power and high-energy ramp rate analyses were made.