Impact of Large-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Integration on Weak Power Grids

Integrating renewable energy sources, specifically grid-scale solar photovoltaic (SPV), into power systems presents challenges and opportunities. While some reports suggest that grid-scale solar energy integration can destabilize power systems, others indicate positive effects. In developing countries, where grid vulnerabilities are common, a thorough understanding of these impacts is crucial to avoid destabilizing the existing network. This study employs modal analysis and time-domain simulation using the Power System Analysis Toolbox (PSAT) to investigate the effects of SPV integration on voltage profiles, active power losses, and stability in the Nigerian 50-bus power system. The results show that SPV integration can improve voltage profiles and reduce active power losses but may compromise transient stability. This underscores the need for a holistic approach that considers voltage stability, losses, and stability constraints.