PV Hosting Capacity Assessment for Improved Planning of Low-Voltage Distribution Networks

Abstract

The electric grid is under growing pressure to integrate new distributed energy resources (DER) such as solar photovoltaics (PVs) reliably and cost-effectively. Hosting capacity analysis (HCA) is an effective planning tool to assess the capability of the distribution grid to accommodate PVs. HCA ensures reliability by alleviating operational boundary violations caused by high penetration of DER. This study has developed a rural substation feeder model and conducted an iterative PV hosting capacity analysis for various load conditions. Multiple hosting capacity constraints have been considered, and their impacts have been evaluated. In addition, PV capacity improvement techniques are discussed. The study's outcome demonstrates the application of dynamic inverter control settings to mitigate capacity restrictions.