Investigating the impact of solar PV and wind energy systems on the strength of a longitudinal power grid

Abstract

The integration of inverter-based generation (IBG), such as solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind systems, presents unique challenges for power grid strength, especially in regions with limited conventional generation capacity. This study investigates the impact of such integration on the strength of Nigeria's power grid, focusing on sparsely connected northern region with abundant renewable resources. Using the network response short-circuit ratio (NRSCR) metric, which accounts for interactions between IBGs, we assess grid strength in three case studies. Simulations were conducted with the Power System Simulation for Engineering (PSS®E) software. Static analysis reveals inherent weakness in the northern region, characterized by low short-circuit capacity. Integrating IBGs at nine strategic locations shows varying responses: strong buses (NRSCR > 10) adapt well, while weak buses (NRSCR < 10), particularly in Kano and Katsina, constrain the operational capacity of the IBGs. Furthermore, close interaction among IBGs at these locations significantly impacts the system's dynamic response, although planned addition of conventional generators offers marginal improvement. This work highlights the potential of renewable resources to address energy shortages but also underscores the crucial need for detailed design studies at each point of interconnection (PoI), considering the longitudinal grid layout in the northern region and potential limitations imposed by IBG interactions. The findings also offer a structured approach that can be applied to power grids with comparable IBG integration levels, similar to the energy landscape of Nigeria.