Assessing the representativeness of ‘Live’ distributed PV data for upscaled PV generation estimates

The incorporation of distributed PV generation data into power system planning and operation is becoming increasingly important as penetrations of PV systems on Australian distribution networks continue to grow. However, the availability of such data is currently very limited. The APVI Live PV Map (Live Map) provides near real-time distributed PV generation estimates in 57 different regions across Australia based on some 6000 PV systems reporting their generation online. This data has a wide range of potential applications including, for example, network planning or PV performance assessment. In this paper we investigate the characteristics of the PV systems contributing to the Live Map database, in order to assess its accuracy and suitability for providing total distributed PV generation estimates for power system planning and operational purposes. The study compares the sample of PV systems contributing data to the Live Map database with the total set of PV systems in Australia, according to the Clean Energy Regulator's (CER's) database. Representativeness is assessed in terms of PV system location, size, age, and inverter manufacturer. The accuracy of the APVI Live Map PV generation estimates for individual regions is assessed by comparison with a separate database of historical interval metered household PV generation from the Ausgrid network. Finally, an example of the application of distributed PV data to electricity network planning is provided to highlight the potential value of these PV generation estimates.