Analyzing Large-scale PV Plant Controllers by Technical Performance Indices using MCS Method

The rapid increase in the installed capacity of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs), particularly Large-Scale Photovoltaic Plant (LS- PVP) will have a major positive or negative impact on the performance of the power system in a near future. The deterministic load flow approach is not an appropriate method for the analysis of modern systems penetrated by RESs. In this paper, a Probabilistic Load Flow (PLF) method based on the stochastic nature of LS- PVP and loads is applied to accurately evaluate the impact of various control methods of LS- PVP on the system. For this purpose, the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method is implemented. In addition, the Technical Performance Indices (TPIs) are used for a more comprehensive investigation. Finally, the control methods of LS- PVP are validated through the Nordic system. Results show that by using LS-PVPs with a proper controller, the negative effects of LS- PVPs on the system are decreased. Moreover, the costs required to expand and reinforce the transmission network, as well as the costs required to reactive power compensation devices, and communication between controllers are decreased. Generally, a system integrated with LS- PVPs in the stressed area is not operated better than the synchronous generators, when a fault occurs.