STUDY OF VOLTAGE AND POWER LOSSES IN 378-E17.2 (SON LA) FEEDER WITH INTEGRATION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC DISTRIBUTED GENERATORS

Abstract

The photovoltaic system (PV) with various impacts has modified many characteristics of the distribution network in terms of voltage variation, power losses and operating modes of equipment in the power grid. To be able to develop solar power effectively, it is necessary to assess these impacts, especially in the specific conditions of the actual distribution grids in Vietnam. This paper introduces the investigation and assessment results on voltage variation and power losses of a solar power intergrated 35 kV feeder in Son La province, an area with the largest potential for solar power development in the North of Vietnam. The structure, parameters of the power network and the load are summarized to show its real situation in terms of voltage parameters and power losses. Then, simulation calculations were performed on ETAP software about the change of voltage and losses with 5 scenarios considering different levels of PV penetrations. The solution was also proposed to keep the voltage within limit. The obtained results provide useful information as well as a technical basis to make recommendations for the planning and operation of PV systems.