Power quality enhancement in unbalanced distribution network using Solar-DSTATCOM

Recent interest in installation of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems into utility distribution network has intensely increased due to cost of the electricity and policy related incentives. In general, Low Voltage (LV) distribution networks are unbalanced in nature due to asymmetry in system impedances and single-phase loads possessing uneven voltage levels in each phase. The integration of PV system in the form of rooftop installations can deteriorate the situation leading to poor power quality (PQ) for consumers. This paper deals with various PQ problems such as overvoltage, voltage unbalance, dip/swells and harmonics and proposes a novel perception of operating PV inverter as a Solar-DSTATCOM with a new control topology to enhance PQ. In this study, an IEEE-13 bus system has been considered as test system. Simulations have been performed for different scenarios like voltage variations due to PV power fluctuations and faults. Results show that the proposed approach together with new control scheme has enriched the PQ.