VPP Economic Assessment for Harnessing Rooftop PV (RT-PV) Ancillary Services in Dubai Region

Utilizing Rooftop Photovoltaic (RT-PV) systems for ancillary services in power grids offers promising benefits such as improving grid stability and reducing operational and capital costs. This study explores the technical feasibility and economic viability of using distributed RT-PV systems in traditional ancillary services framework through virtual power plants, with a particular focus on voltage support and spinning reserves. This study has been conducted as an outcome from the RT-PV Shams Dubai initiative and the VPP pilot project in the Dubai region. Through a comprehensive economic analysis and assessment of the reactive power capabilities and active power curtailment of PV inverters, this work highlights the impact of the aggregation of distributed RT-PV systems to enhance grid stability, reduce operational expenses, and defer investment costs to the utility. Additionally, the reduction in CO2 emissions is calculated to reflect the environmental benefits of incorporating PV systems and their alignment with global environmental sustainability goals. The findings underscore that incorporating RT-PV for ancillary services proves to be a cost-effective strategy to optimize grid operations while promoting sustainable energy practices.