Abstract:
he integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into the power system distribution
network have proven to be beneficial to all the power sector players. These include:
reduced greenhouse gas emission, reduced transmission and distribution losses,
delivery of clean power to consumers due to close proximity of loads to the generators,
and deferred investments by distributed network operators. The continued integration
of RES has been enhanced by inability of conventional energy to meet increasing power
requirements, need for clean energy, low power generation costs due to technological
advancements, and favorable government policies encouraging investment in
renewable energy sector. This integration however, necessitates re-configuration of
distribution network since RES cause reversed power flows, instability among other
power quality concerns. This transformation will rely on studies conducted on the
behavior of grids integrated with renewable energy sources. We examined the impact
of integration of solar, wind and gas micro-turbine generators. on harmonics and flicker
of low voltage (LV) and medium voltage (MV) networks. This was realized by
integrating the RES at selected locations of the IEEE-33 bus system and carrying out
harmonic and flicker analysis using DigSILENT Power Factory software. Results
showed increased harmonic distortion and flicker levels on LV and MV networks
dependent on the type, location, penetration level and whether a single-type of RES or
combination of RES was installed.
