A study of solar PV saturation limits for representative low voltage networks

Globally there has been a strong uptake in distributed generation, namely solar PV. The introduction of generation at the network fringes has introduced a number of challenges for network operators, particularly overvoltage. Rules of thumb have been somewhat effective while the total penetration of distributed generation was low. With regions like Queensland, Australia now having 25% of households with a solar PV, more effective methodologies are required for determining more accurate “hosting capacities”. This paper used network topology data to develop representative LV networks and derive DG hosting capacities that have been confirmed with field data for statistic validity. A key take-away from this analysis however is that given the observed variance in results, typical LV networks and hosting capacities can be used for broad based analysis, however network operators should consider performing analysis for each new connection given the variance at an individual customer level.