Modeling Distribution System Impacts of Solar Variabiliy and Interconnection Location

As the amount of solar energy on the distribution grows, a quick and easy simulation method is needed to model the impact of solar energy and to help distribution planners perform the necessary interconnection studies. This paper demonstrates the functionality and methods of a prototype software that models the variable nature of the distribution system load and solar energy throughout the year with cloud-cover. It also models the spatial impact on the distribution system with GIS integration with Google Maps. OpenDSS is used to model the distribution system with MATLAB providing the frontend user interface. Results are included for several example feeders in Utah and some of the IEEE distribution feeders. Finally, a method is also proposed using the Power Transfer Distribution Factor (PTDF) to analyze the placement of solar on the feeder for improving security, controlling voltage, and decreasing line losses.