The Impact of Single-Phase Photovoltaic Systems on Fault Current in Asymmetric Low-Voltage Distribution Networks

Abstract

This paper presents the impact of adding single-phase photovoltaic systems on the fault current of short-circuit faults in asymmetric 400 V low-voltage feeders. This study also attempts to investigate the impact of various parameters on the fault current, such as the penetration coefficient of photovoltaic systems, the impact of downstream or upstream fault on the system installation location, and distance of photovoltaic systems and fault location. Simulations were carried out in the DIgSILENT software. The results show that the fault current will be more different when using photovoltaic systems and that difference is sometimes incremental and sometimes decremental. Therefore, if the penetration coefficient of the system is high, it will sometimes have a significant impact on the protection system.