The role of the generator layer in photovoltaic power stations

What is solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation is the process of converting energy from the sun into electricity using solar panels. Solar panels, also called PV panels, are combined into arrays in a PV system. PV systems can also be installed in grid-connected or off-grid (stand-alone) configurations.

Why should PV generators be integrated into the grid?

With the increased integration of PV generators into the grid, the system operators start to require PV generators have capabilities to stay online during the fault, and provide the active power and the reactive power supports when being required to do so.

How is a PV generator modeled in a power system steady state study?

A PV generator is modeled as a constant active power and reactive power source in power system steady state studies. When PV generation changes due to the ambient environment, the power system steady state studies do not investigate the transients of the power system caused by the change in PV generation.

How does a PV generator work?

By controlling the instantaneous three-phase inverter output voltages v a, v b and v c, the PV generator controls the active power output and the reactive power interchanges with the external grid.

How a photovoltaic system is integrated with a utility grid?

A basic photovoltaic system integrated with utility grid is shown in Fig. 2. The PV array converts the solar energy to dc power, which is directly dependent on insolation. Blocking diode facilitates the array generated power to flow only towards the power conditioner.

Is a photovoltaic generator a PQ node?

Unlike a conventional generator that is often modeled as a PV node (set the generator’s terminal voltage and its active power output constant), a photovoltaic generator is operated as a PQ node (set the photovoltaic generator’s active power and reactive power outputs constant).