Power Factor Settings of Photovoltaics Considering Regional Characteristics in Distribution Network for Effective Generation Utilization

In this study, we evaluate the effectiveness of adjusting the photovoltaic (PV) power factor (PF) setting of the fixed-power factor (FPF) control in distribution networks considering regional characteristics and PV penetration conditions. The appropriate voltage regulation is a challenge for distribution network operators (DNO) because voltage violations may occur by PV generation. FPF control is widely applied in PV systems and voltage is regulated by reactive power injection depending on the PF setting. Japanese DNOs unify the PF setting of PV connections to a low-voltage system with 95 % lagging. However, the required reactive power support to mitigate voltage fluctuations is different based on regional characteristics such as the load profile and PV penetration condition. Excessive reactive power injection may cause PV curtailment owing to the limitation of the inverter capacity and increased power loss. Thus, PV PF setting adjustment is necessary for the stable power system operation. In this study, we evaluate the effectiveness of adjusting the PV PF setting considering regional characteristics in terms of voltage regulation and PV curtailment. In the simulation, the effectiveness is assessed using two types of Japanese distribution feeder models: residential and rural areas that assume two PV penetration scenarios.