Comparative analysis of time-series studies and transient simulations for impact assessment of PV integration on reduced IEEE 8500 node feeder

This paper outlines a series of transient and time-series studies performed on a reduced version of the IEEE 8500 node feeder - as the benchmark - to compare simulation results between a transient analysis software tool such as PSCAD/EMTDC and a steady-state/time-series analysis software such as OpenDSS. The study objectives are targeted toward evaluating software tools and study approaches for investigating intermittency impact of integrating large solar photovoltaic plants into distribution systems. It should be noted that very detailed system parameters are required to develop transient models, while load flow type tools do not require such detail data. Yet, the tools need to be evaluated to ensure results are accurate enough. Operation of feeder control devices such as voltage regulators and shunt capacitors is included and compared among various scenarios. Simulations in OpenDSS are performed at different time steps to determine the ideal value based on control timing and amount of data requirements.