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Impacts of Photovoltaics in Low-Voltage Distribution Networks: A Case Study in Malta

Author

Listed:
  • Yesbol Gabdullin

    (MCAST Energy Research Group, Institute for Engineering and Transport, Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), PLA 9032 Paola, Malta)

  • Brian Azzopardi

    (MCAST Energy Research Group, Institute for Engineering and Transport, Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), PLA 9032 Paola, Malta
    Azzopardi & Associates Consulting Firm, NXR 3622 Naxxar, Malta)

Abstract

Photovoltaic systems (PVs) are promising low-carbon technologies playing a major role in the electricity business. In terms of voltage variation and feeder usage capacity, high PV penetration levels have significant technical implications for grid stability, particularly in Low Voltage (LV) networks. This paper presents a comprehensive PV integration analysis on real-life residential LV networks in Malta using recorded smart metering data. The methodology framework and tools developed are highlighted through step-by-step results on their usefulness. First, at the substation level, an LV network with seven LV feeders is analyzed using Monte Carlo simulations and OpenDSS. Then, Cumulative Distribution Functions (CDFs) are extracted to establish the likelihood of LV network challenges. Afterwards, 95 multi-feeder analyses assess the impact assessment on the first occurrence of LV network challenges and predominant issues. Finally, a Regression Analysis Tool, considering the regression’s standard error, is built for seven feeder characteristics to predict the impacts. The stochastic processes reveal strong relationships with feeder characteristics that are helpful for network planning and operations. However, the Maltese grid currently has less than 20% PV penetration at any LV feeder. Hence, significant technological hurdles are absent.

Suggested Citation

  • Yesbol Gabdullin & Brian Azzopardi, 2022. "Impacts of Photovoltaics in Low-Voltage Distribution Networks: A Case Study in Malta," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(18), pages 1-14, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:15:y:2022:i:18:p:6731-:d:915125
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Azzopardi, Brian & Gabriel-Buenaventura, Alejandro, 2014. "Feasibility assessment for high penetration of distributed photovoltaics based on net demand planning," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 76(C), pages 233-240.
    2. Musharraf Wajahat & Hassan Abdullah Khalid & Ghullam Mustafa Bhutto & Claus Leth Bak, 2019. "A Comparative Study into Enhancing the PV Penetration Limit of a LV CIGRE Residential Network with Distributed Grid-Tied Single-Phase PV Systems," Energies, MDPI, vol. 12(15), pages 1-17, August.
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    Cited by:

    1. Rozmysław Mieński & Irena Wasiak & Paweł Kelm, 2023. "Integration of PV Sources in Prosumer Installations Eliminating Their Negative Impact on the Supplying Grid and Optimizing the Microgrid Operation," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(8), pages 1-17, April.
    2. Łukasz Mazur & Zbigniew Kłosowski, 2023. "A New Approach to the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources in Low-Voltage Power Distribution Networks," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(2), pages 1-29, January.

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