Solar Forecasting for Low Voltage Network Operations: Selected Case Studies in Australia

Abstract

The utilization of solar forecasting data for the proactive management of low voltage (LV) networks is in its infancy. This paper presents three cases studies from Australian low voltage network operators (DNSPs - distribution network service providers) who have been given access to high resolution solar forecasting data for the purposes of evaluating the use of the technology for LV network management. The first of the selectes use cases focus on how solar forecasting data can aid decision making in day to day LV network operations. The second and third use case are closely related, and demonstrate how behind-the-meter solar forecasts through Solcast Grid Aggregations allows LV network operators to generate more accurate gross load profiles, so that the underlying true demand can be estimated at the zone substation level, by combining these data with SCADA measurements. Broadly, we conclude that these use cases demonstrate that there is significant value for LV network operators to utilize solar forecasting data in their network management and planning activities.