Local control of photovoltaic distributed generation for voltage regulation in LV distribution networks and simulation tools

The increasing connection of distributed generation (DG) in distribution networks may affect the quality of power offered to customers. One of the most relevant issues is the possibility to have unacceptable voltage rise at the point of common coupling (PCC). This work focuses on the problem of voltage control in LV distribution networks in the presence of photovoltaic (PV) DG. The paper presents a local voltage control method based on PV generation curtailment as an alternative to 'on/off' operation, typically required by distribution operators to prevent overvoltage at the PCCs by means of overvoltage protections embedded in the PV unit. To show the effect of the proposed local voltage control, a simulation tool, developed in MATLAB (R)-Simulink (R) environment, is presented. Appropriate numerical models for network components and PV generators are provided in order to describe computer simulation implementation of the test system. The final results show that the control system is able to adjust the active power output of local generators to keep the voltage profile of the feeder, in which DG is installed. within the range allowed by Norm EN 50160. Copyright (C) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.