OPERATIONAL EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF DEMAND PROFILE IN A GRID-CONNECTED PHOTOVOLTAIC MICROGENERATOR

Abstract

This study aims to verify the operation effects of a grid-connected photovoltaic system with different consumption profiles. The system has 2.45 kWp nominal power and it is installed in the testing area of the Grupo de Estudos e Desenvolvimento de Alternativas Energéticas (GEDAE). The different demand profiles were simulated by a programmable electronic load to represent typical consumption of a commercial consumer, and a residential consumer. To verify the relevant parameters to the study, such as power factor and total harmonic distortion, spot measurements were performed for each case of consumption profile attended by grid and by the PV grid-connected. The inverter used in the study operates as a current source having unity power factor and low THD present in inverter current when output is higher than 15% of nominal Power, hence, to situation of increase demand whit no-linear load characteristic means a reducing power factor seen by de grid side, as well as increasing the total harmonic distortion of the current circulating in the grid.