Cost-effectiveness of photovoltaic generation in a transmission-constrained load area of an interconnected system

Electric power systems of today are experiencing a difficulty of constrained transmission lines, which have severely limited transfer capability between interconnected regions. The problem is more compounded by such factors as difficulty in obtaining rights-of-way, the strong environmental movement, public protest against the construction of additional transmission facilities, and the resulting inability to expand the constrained system. All of these factors are forcing the utility planners and third parties alike to search for other viable alternatives to meet the uncertainly growing load in their planning regions or at least to be able to compete effectively in the growing electricity market. The present study examines and evaluates the applicability and cost-effectiveness of photovoltaic (PV) generation in a transmission-constrained load area of a two-area interconnected system with limited transfer capability