Abstract
A properly planned interconnection of Distributed Generation (DG) to the grid can help minimize system loses, and defers system upgrades. Higher penetration level of DG has been known to negatively affect the steady state voltage profile, intermittent voltage fluctuations, and possible line overloads. Static VAr Compensators (SVC) and Smart Inverters (SI) are considered as viable equipment for mitigating the voltage effects caused by DG. This project aims to investigate and verify the overvoltage and overloading issues caused by DG at high penetration levels. A real distribution feeder from a local utility was selected using cluster analysis for simulations. A commercial software was used for all simulations. DG at various penetration levels was interconnected at 4 different locations on the feeder. Summer Peak (SP), Partial Peak (PP) and Winter Peak (WP) loading conditions have been studied. Solar Photo-Voltaic (PV) is used as a DG for simulations. SVC and SI were proposed as possible solutions and their mitigating effects have been reported. Acceptable penetration levels of DG have been proposed depending on location of DG and associated voltage or overloading issues. Overloading of cables and lines is indicated in terms of percentages. Two special cases, one involving simultaneous high and low voltage conditions and the other related to high voltages at multiple locations, have also been studied. Proposed solutions for both cases have been reported.