Estimation of maximum penetration level of Solar PV and its enhancement by STATCOM

In order to meet the escalating energy demand, the penetration level of solar photo voltaic generation (SPVG)has to be enhanced. It may cause stability and security issues in the system like power quality, protection mis-coordination, and reverse power flow, to mention a few. This warrants techniques to determine the maximum level of SPVG that may be installed for reliable and sustainable operation of the system. No strict rule is existing to determine the maximum hosting capacity of solar PV. This paper investigates various criteria for determining penetration level adopted for installing solar PV in distribution network. For safe penetration of solar PV, the operating limits of system parameters should be maintained in the system. This paper presents an oscillatory stability based determination of maximum penetration level of solar PV. The paper also illustrates enhancement of penetration level by employing FACTS devices at different locations in the system.