Effect of Photovoltaic Generation on Frequency Stability in Steelworks With Electric Arc Furnaces

Integrating renewable energy sources, especially photovoltaic, into the distribution networks supplying steelworks offers a significant opportunity to decrease reliance on fossil fuels. However, the inherent intermittency of these energy sources, combined with the lack of inertia due to the use of electronic converters, poses significant challenges to the stability of the electrical system. This study aims to analyze the impact of large loads, such as electric arc furnaces, which experience considerable fluctuations in power demand, on frequency control in networks with high photovoltaic penetration. The analysis was conducted on networks with synchronous generation systems and varying levels of photovoltaic penetration. The system response is shaped by critical parameters such as the displacement factor, shortcircuit impedance, harmonic and interharmonic injection, the rate of power demand variation, equivalent inertia, and governor gain. Effectively managing these variables is crucial for improving performance and minimizing frequency deviations. The analysis is based on measurements obtained from an operational steel plant, which served both to calibrate the simulation models and to validate selected outcomes.