Large-scale grid integration of variable photovoltaic power offers new possibilities
At the workshop international grid specialists, distribution system operators and policy experts discussed new perspectives to increase the grid hosting capacity for distributed photovoltaic (PV) power. The workshop focused on policies that need to be set up at European level to accompany the transformation of the power system induced by such a transformation.
As concerns grow that increasing photovoltaic (PV) generation may cause significant bottlenecks on the low and medium voltage grids, utilities, distribution system operators and grid experts are actively looking into new tools and techniques for reinforcing grid hosting capacity in smart and cost-efficient ways and for using PV as an active supplier of local ancillary services. The experts met in Brussels to exchange ideas and insights on worldwide plans for smart grid integration of photovoltaics.
Different approaches are being experimented in different parts of the world to integrate PV into the grid.
"Demonstration projects as well as concrete developments show that more PV, with advanced control systems, can delay or even substitute for grid reinforcements," reported Achim Woyte, R&D manager at 3E.
"The EU has the long-term policy vision, and the institutional framework in place to establish the right regulatory and infrastructure regimes. With this and the on-going efforts to drive down the costs of PV we have a strong framework for major PV development," said Tom Howes, Deputy Head of Renewable energy policy unit, DG ENER, European Commission.
Roland Bründlinger, operating agent of the IEA PVPS Task 14, commented: "PV systems have some unique features which have to be considered when integrating a large number of such distributed generators into the electric power system".
Specific characteristics of PV technology such as variability and inverter connection, require more flexibility in the distribution and transmission systems, but also provide opportunities for grid support, especially in terms of reactive power provision.
In order to achieve a cost-efficient integration of variable PV power into the grid, "standards in products need to be developed on the one hand, while network regulations must grant to PV generation a level-playing access to the grid on the other hand," said Frauke Thies, EPIA Policy Director.
The workshop was financed by the European Commission and organised by renewable energy consultancy and software company 3E, on behalf of the MetaPV consortium and the IEA PVPS task 14 working group, with support from EPIA.
Presentations delivered during the workshop can be downloaded on www.metapv.eu
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