Abstract
The growth in global electricity demand has expanded the search for new energy resources. Renewable sources such as photovoltaic (PV) systems have proven to be major alternatives. PV generators connected to distribution grids have exhibited significant growth in the last decade, so it is essential to analyse the impacts resulting from this increase. This work investigated the influence of high PV system penetration in distribution grids in terms of harmonic levels. In particular, this study addressed the distortions in voltage and current waveforms in the presence and absence of PV generators connected to a distribution grid. Additionally, the total harmonic content and the individual harmonic frequencies of voltage and current were analysed. This study was performed with an IEEE 37 bus distribution system and the Open Distribution System Simulator software (OpenDSS). The results show that the voltage limits of some phases far away from a substation can exceed the limits. Furthermore, the total harmonic distortion (THD) and individual harmonic distortion (IHD) levels for voltage and current were significantly high for harmonics of the 3rd, 5th, and 7th orders, where current levels violate the standard levels.
Highlights
IntroductionThe search for new energy alternatives is ever-present
The results presented in [27] indicated that the total harmonic distortion (THD) in voltage at the same common coupling point where photovoltaic generation is connected tends to be identical to the THD in transformers employed in the generation connection
There is a research gap regarding the high penetration of photovoltaic generation into distribution systems as they relate to the effects of harmonics and harmonic distortions, which we aimed to fill in this study
Summary
The search for new energy alternatives is ever-present. The exhaustion of nonrenewable energy resources and environmental preservation necessitates an increasing need for the development of renewable energy system technologies such as solar power. New advances in energy technology and the integration of renewable energy sources into distribution systems have contributed to a substantial improvement in the global generation of electricity in terms of quality and reliability. The use of renewable energy contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to the minimisation of environmental impacts. Renewable energy sources help reduce the need for large energy generation systems and extensive transmission lines. Solar power systems or photovoltaic (PV) systems are frequently connected to distribution grids, and their use is increasing worldwide
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
