Integration challenges of photovoltaic distributed generation on power distribution systems

A growing number of North American utilities are experiencing a significant proliferation of photovoltaic distributed generation (PV-DG). PV-DG integration can pose a challenge to distribution utilities due to the variety of impacts on several aspects of distribution systems planning and operations and the fact that hitherto distribution feeders have been designed and operated for supplying unidirectional power flow. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the impacts of utility-scale PV-DG on power distribution systems planning and operations, including those of steady state and dynamic nature. This paper discusses mitigation measures to address these impacts and reviews potential benefits and synergies of PV-DG.