Integration of Energy Storage for Voltage Support in Distribution Systems with PV Generation

The exploitation of PV generation offers substantial environmental benefits. Yet, the integration of these might be problematic due to its variable and intermittent nature. Energy storage can compensate for the deficiencies featured by variable PV systems. This paper provides a mathematical programming based approach for the strategic deployment of energy storage in the feeder circuits to achieve ubiquitous grid benefits. A genetic algorithm (GA) is used to solve the problem of appropriate size and location of the energy storage. Quasi-static time sequence analysis is carried out on diurnal basis, to correlate the coincidence of the PV resource output and demand. This will ensure accurate appraisal of storage impacts on the system hour by hour. The proposed approach is implemented on the IEEE 123 node test feeder under various penetration levels and operating scenarios. Results have consistently affirmed that the proposed approach is efficient in maintaining system's voltage profile at various conditions as well as reducing the overall thermal losses.