Impact of distributed generation on power distribution systems

Abstract

In order to reduce the green house gas emissions all over the world the investment on renewable energy infrastructure is increasing particularly in the distribution network. The penetration of generating sources in the distribution network changes the characteristics of distribution system and will have impact on various technical parameters based on its size and location in the network. This paper modeled the IEEE 34 Node distribution test feeder using the commercial software package DIgSILENT power factory version 14. Solar photovoltaic generators are introduced as Distributed Generators (DGs) at various nodes and the impacts that DG produces on real and reactive power losses, voltage profile, phase imbalance and fault level of distribution system is studied. Simulated results obtained using load flow and short circuit studies are presented and discussed. © 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd.