Real time generation mapping of distributed PV for network planning and operations

With growing penetrations of distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems in Australian electricity networks, it is increasingly important for network planners and operators to better understand, predict and hence manage the impact of these systems throughout their networks. Time series estimates of distributed PV generation mapped to different Australian geographic regions are now being created from a sample of these distributed PV systems that report their generation in near real time. In this paper a range of potential applications of these spatial PV generation traces are discussed, with a focus on their potential contribution towards transmission network planning and operations. These include estimating the impact of PV on peak demand, load forecasting, situation awareness and dynamic line ratings.