Optimization of the investment cost of solar based grid

Abstract

A new optimization method of the investment cost of a distribution grid supplied by photovoltaic (PV) sources. This method consists of determining the optimal grid cables cross sections and the optimal grid supply point (GSP) position, such that the sum of the joule losses and the cables investment costs are optimized. The determination of these parameters are performed by the programming of analytical equations using Matlab software, taking into account the influence of technical and economical requirements on the choice of the cables cross sections and the possibility of using several photovoltaic generators (PVG) with separated grids for spaced loads from a long distance, by optimizing the grouping loads combination. The obtained results show that: for a lowest global investment cost, the optimal GSP is referred to the minimum cost center (MCC), for the grid joule losses minimization, it can be in the minimum joule losses cost center (MJLCC); or in the center of the minimum investment cost of cables (CMICC) in the case of the cables investment cost minimization. The adoption of the optimal cross sections, the optimal PVGs (GSPs) number and their optimal positions achieve significant economic gains in terms of the investment cost.