Impact of the incorporation of photovoltaics distributed generation in electric distribution grids in Ecuador

Abstract

The distributed generation (DG) allows electricity production to be closer to consumers, relieving the burden on distribution grid feeders. Interest in DG has increased in recent years due to its close relationship with smart grids and the development of carbon-free generation technologies. The Ciudad del Sol feeder in the city of Machala in Ecuador is one of the feeders with the highest electricity demand. This study evaluates the incorporation of DG in several consumers connected to this feeder. Depending on the range of energy consumption of each customer, different PV systems are proposed to meet their demands. The results of the study show that the installation of PV generation systems allows considerable savings on the electricity bill. In addition, the reduction of grid demand reduces Joule effect losses and improves voltage profiles. The results suggest that the massive incorporation of correctly dimensioned PV systems does not affect the operating conditions of a distribution power grid.