Energy Storage Options for Voltage Support in Low-Voltage Grids with High Penetration of Photovoltaic

The generation of power by photovoltaic (PV) systems is constantly increasing in low-voltage (LV) distribution grids, in line with the European environmental targets. To cope with the effects on grid voltage profiles during high generation and low demand periods, new solutions need to be established.

In the long term, these solutions should also aim to allow further more PV installed capacity, while meeting the power quality requirements. In this paper, different concepts of energy storage are proposed to ensure the voltage quality requirements in a LV grid with high PV penetration. The proposed storage concepts can cooperate with reactive power methods and can be used to avoid grid reinforcement and active power curtailment.

For the study, a residential LV grid with high share of PV generation is used. Simulation results show substantial benefits for the LV feeders operation, as well as an increased potential for local consumption.