Hosting capacity of LV networks with extended voltage band

Abstract

This paper presents the results of investigations on the voltage band management in low voltage networks considering two promising network integration solutions to enhance the hosting capacity for e.g. high PV penetrations. The critical length defined as border between current and voltage constraints is calculated for typical overhead lines and cables. The extension of the available voltage band by the use of e.g. on load tap changers in secondary substations allows a substantial increase of the hosting capacity which can be further increased by the use of reactive power based voltage control. However, the actual benefits of a voltage band extension or voltage control measures can only be used for feeders exceeding the critical length. In this paper, the critical length for different types of feeders is calculated and the implications are discussed. In addition, the impact of an extension of the voltage band and of the use of network integration solutions on network losses is investigated.