Voltage regulation in renewable energy integration into the distribution network

Abstract

Large-scale renewable energy (RE) integration into the distribution network (DN) causes uncertainties due to its intermittent nature and is a challenging task today. In general RE sources are mostly connected near the end user level, i.e., in the low voltage distribution network. RE integration introduces bi-directional power flows across distribution transformer (DT) and hence DN experiences with several potential problems that includes voltage fluctuations, reactive power compensation and poor power factor in the DN. This study identifies the potential effects causes due to large-scale integration of RE into the Berserker Street Feeder, Frenchville Substation under Rockhampton DN. From the model analyses, it has clearly evident that voltage of the Berserker Street Feeder fluctuates with the increased integration of RE and causes uncertainties in the feeder as well as the DN.