Recent research led by Vanika Sharma from the University of South Australia has unveiled a promising solution to a significant challenge faced by rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Australia: overvoltage issues that lead to the curtailment of power generation. Published in the journal IEEE Access, this study highlights how integrating reactive power support from battery inverters can mitigate these problems, ultimately enhancing the performance and profitability of solar energy systems.
As rooftop solar installations proliferate across Australia, many systems generate excess electricity beyond local consumption needs. This surplus often causes voltage levels in distribution networks to exceed permissible limits, prompting solar inverters to either reduce their output or shut down completely to protect the grid. Such curtailments not only diminish the effectiveness of solar energy but also result in financial losses for homeowners and businesses relying on these systems.
Sharma’s research proposes a novel method to address this issue. By utilizing reactive power support from local battery inverters, the study demonstrates that it is possible to manage overvoltage conditions without impacting the active power flow from PV systems. “If the reactive power of the battery inverter is insufficient, the PV inverter response modes are activated,” Sharma explains. This two-pronged approach reduces the dependency on PV inverters, thereby minimizing the instances of active power curtailment.
The research was conducted on an 11-kV distribution feeder in South Australia, where simulation results indicated a significant improvement. The combined efforts of battery and PV inverters successfully eliminated overvoltage problems, reduced active power curtailment, and mitigated the associated financial losses. This finding is particularly relevant for energy providers and solar companies looking to enhance the reliability and economic viability of solar energy projects.
Additionally, the study explored the impact of selecting lower source bus voltages during periods of high solar radiation. This strategic adjustment can further alleviate overvoltage issues, presenting an opportunity for grid operators to optimize their systems in conjunction with increasing solar energy adoption.
The implications of this research extend beyond technical improvements; they represent a potential commercial boon for sectors involved in renewable energy, battery storage, and solar technology. As more homeowners and businesses invest in solar solutions, the ability to maintain efficient and reliable energy production becomes crucial. Companies that adopt these findings could enhance their offerings, reduce customer losses due to curtailment, and ultimately drive greater adoption of solar energy solutions.
In summary, the integration of reactive power support from battery inverters, as explored by Sharma and her team, presents a viable pathway to overcoming the challenges posed by overvoltage in solar PV systems. This advancement not only promises to protect the integrity of distribution networks but also opens up new avenues for financial gains in the renewable energy sector, as highlighted in the research published in IEEE Access.
