The effects of distributed generation sources within commercial retail reticulation networks

Abstract

There is an increased implementation of renewable energy generation sources, such as solar PV, within electrical networks. This is due to the reduced cost of electricity generated from renewable energy systems as well as the world becoming more environmentally aware. There is therefore a need to understand the effects of Distributed Generation (DG) within commercial retail reticulation networks on load and networks parameters, such as coincident demand and load factor. These load parameters play an important role in network design as well as in load forecasting which influences network expansion and generation planning decisions. A hypothetical study was conducted on a low-voltage commercial retail reticulation network to determine the effects of varying levels of DG penetration on load and network parameters. Two DG placement scenarios were investigated; centrally and de-centrally located within the reticulation network. Results from the hypothetical study were confirmed by conducting the same analysis on a commercial retail reticulation network in service, with measured load demand data available. Results obtained indicated that load parameters such as coincident demand, load factor and diversity factor are significantly impacted at high levels of DG penetration. Further investigation is required to determine if the altering of load parameters, from the introduction of DG would require current design procedures or standards to be modified and updated; or if the standards applicable to the design of reticulation networks are still relevant when varying levels of DG penetration are introduced.