Large scale deployment of PV units in existing distribution networks: Optimization of the installation layout

In fixed PV installations, the azimuth and tilt of the panels are normally chosen with the objective of maximizing the plant capacity factor. In this paper, we show that when considering distribution networks with densely clustered PV plants, there exist installation criteria other than the conventional that achieve higher net PV production without violating distribution network constraints. In particular, we formulate an optimization problem to determine the siting, sizing, azimuth and tilt of all panels across a residential area in order to maximize the PV production over a year while respecting the power grid voltage and line ampacity constraints. As a case study, we consider a Swiss distribution network and synthetic irradiance data for the considered area generated by using a clear-sky model. We use the case study to compare the conventional method of installing PV panels to the proposed method, and show that the latter can achieve an almost 6% increase in total solar electricity production.