Abstract
Solar photovoltaics (PV) is the dominant type of distributed generation (DG) technology interconnected to electric distribution systems in the United States, and deployment of PV systems continues to increase rapidly. Considering the rapid growth and widespread deployment of PV systems in United States electric distribution grids, it is important that interconnection procedures be as streamlinedas possible to avoid unnecessary interconnection studies, costs, and delays. Because many PV interconnection applications involve high penetration scenarios, the process needs to allow for a sufficiently rigorous technical evaluation to identify and address possible system impacts. Existing interconnection procedures are designed to balance the need for efficiency and technical rigor for all DG.However, there is an implicit expectation that those procedures will be updated over time in order to remain relevant with respect to evolving standards, technology, and practical experience. Modifications to interconnection screens and procedures must focus on maintaining or improving safety and reliability, as well as accurately allocating costs and improving expediency of the interconnectionprocess. This paper evaluates the origins and usefulness of the capacity penetration screen, offers potential short-term solutions which could effectively allow fast-track interconnection to many PV system applications, and considers longer-term solutions for increasing PV deployment levels in a safe and reliable manner while reducing or eliminating the emphasis on the penetration screen.
Original language | American English |
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Number of pages | 8 |
State | Published - 2012 |
Event | 2012 IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference - Austin, Texas Duration: 3 Jun 2012 → 8 Jun 2012 |
Conference
Conference | 2012 IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference |
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City | Austin, Texas |
Period | 3/06/12 → 8/06/12 |
NREL Publication Number
- NREL/CP-5500-54103
Keywords
- electric utilities
- high penetration
- interconnection
- penetration
- public utility commissions
- screens
- utility