Potential power quality impacts on LV distribution networks with high penetration levels of solar PV

Recent government policy initiatives have significantly increased the number of grid connected solar PV systems in distribution networks. Thus, it is of vital importance to understand the technical impacts of high penetration levels of solar PV systems on the operating performance of these networks. This paper presents an analysis of power quality aspects of an urban low voltage (LV) distribution network with high solar PV penetration levels in Sri Lanka. The study includes three-phase load flow analysis carried out by modeling the selected network in DIgSILENT PowerFactory simulation platform using 15 - minute load data. Effects on net power flows and voltages of the LV network, which have been verified using field measurements, are discussed. Factors influencing the hosting capacity of solar PV are investigated by analysing technical impacts at varying solar PV penetration levels.