Mpofu, Mkululi (2019) Impact of Large-Scale Solar Energy Penetration on the Electricity Network With a View of Replacing Synchronous Generators. [USQ Project]
|
Text (Project)
Mpofu_M_Ahfock_Redacted.pdf Download (5MB) | Preview |
Abstract
This project is an investigation into the impacts of large-scale solar energy penetration on the electricity network with a view towards replacing conventional synchronous generators. The world is shifting away from use of fossil fuels for generation of electricity as these are attributed to excessive production of carbon dioxide and other gases gas that are widely accepted to be linked to global warming. Solar energy has become synonymous with environmentally friendly sources of energy as it is seen as a significant contributor to global warming reduction. This has led to large penetration of solar energy into electricity networks as some world governments are targeting 100% solar generated power by as early as 2030. However, there has been insufficient research on optimal solar penetration levels given the intermittent and uncontrollable nature of solar energy generation thus setting up a stage for this research project.
The project starts with an extensive research on literature relating to the impact of high solar Photovoltaic (PV) penetration on electricity networks. A simple model of an electricity network is developed to facilitate simulation of network conditions. The model consists of two parts, the solar system and the grid system. The solar section comprises of solar array with varying irradiance and/or temperature, DC-DC boost converter to facilitate Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) capability, DC-AC Inverter, Point of Common Coupling (PCC), Step-up Transformer and grid system with conventional synchronous generators. The DC-DC converter is equipped with Perturb and Observe algorithm to track the maximum power point of the PV modules. This ensures that the modules are at their maximum production level all the time. The inverter controls implement reactive power injection to support the grid during disturbances. The grid side of the network is modelled with synchronous generators that are equipped with governor control for frequency regulation and they also implement a closed loop feedback system for excitation control. The grid includes two sections of transmission lines modelled in a
|
Statistics for this ePrint Item |
| Item Type: | USQ Project |
|---|---|
| Item Status: | Live Archive |
| Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: | Historic - Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences - School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (1 Jul 2013 - 31 Dec 2021) |
| Supervisors: | Ahfock, Tony; Hewitt, Andrew |
| Qualification: | Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical and Electronic) |
| Date Deposited: | 18 Aug 2021 04:15 |
| Last Modified: | 26 Jun 2023 22:56 |
| URI: | https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/43135 |
Actions (login required)
 |
Archive Repository Staff Only |
