Evaluation of network balancing on PV hosting capacity and voltage excursions - Belgium experiment

The widespread adoption of photovoltaic systems in Belgium, that started in 2012 and was encouraged by a 2023 regulatory change, presents a significant challenge for Low Voltage networks, including overvoltages and frequent PV disconnections. This paper assesses the benefits of a data-driven balancing approach to enhance voltage profile and mitigate these PV disconnections. Thanks to a collaboration with RESA, a Belgian DSO, the approach has been implemented at a pilot site featuring 4 substations and 208 meters. Significant improvements in voltage profile and network balance have been measured over a three-month period following the intervention. Three key achievements have been highlighted: improved distribution of PV production over the three phases, preservation of existing consumption balance, and an increase in the total PV production.