Load Rejection Overvoltage of Utility-Scale Distributed Solar Generation

Abstract

Inverter-based solar generation can cause load rejection overvoltage when the connected distribution circuit is islanded from the utility grid. The load rejection overvoltage presents electric stress on utility equipment, metering devices, and customer equipment. This article investigates the load rejection overvoltage mechanism of utility-scale solar generation based on measurements collected by utility protective relays. The impact of solar inverter induced overvoltage on arresters and customer equipment is analyzed.