Integrating Utility-scale Solar PV - Grid Connection Studies
(Room Jupiter 7)
03 Sep 15
9:00 AM
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10:30 AM
The integration of fluctuating renewable power sources into today’s power systems is a must as much as a challenge.
Tractebel Engineering (GDF SUEZ) proposes through this paper to demystify grid impact studies and grid code compliance studies, two technical exercises commonly required by grid operators.
The grid impact study starts with data collection for the purpose of PV plant and power system modelling. One then considers load flow and contingencies in order to propose connection scheme options and to compare them. Short circuit and transient systems studies are then performed, addressing respectively the influence of the new plant on the network and its behaviour during external power system transient events.
The grid code compliance study aims to validate that the new PV farm and its equipment comply with the local grid code requirements. An overview of the nature of typical grid code requirements will be provided (voltage/frequency range, reactive power range, voltage support, low voltage ride-through, power quality, …), along with typical performance as can be expected from modern PV inverters (without reference to specific commercial products).
This paper rests on concrete and recent experiences in studying the impact of utility scale (~50MW) PV farms in Malaysia, Northern Africa and Middle East in order to make it general yet illustrated by practical examples.