Impact of high PV penetration on voltage regulation in electrical distribution systems

Cloud-induced transients induced in photovoltaic (PV) power are considered as a potential barrier to further expansion when the penetration of this renewable generation resource reaches a high level in distribution systems. Such transients can cause voltage flicker or excessive operation of the voltage regulating equipment. This article studies these effects on part of a local distribution substation. Actual transformer load and solar irradiance data based on 1-minute interval are used to simulate the impact of 20% PV penetration on the feeder voltage during a time period that covers both clear and cloudy skies. Based on some specified conditions, the simulations indicate that voltage flicker is not a concern, but the tap changer operates excessively even when using a 5-minute time delay.