Determination of photovoltaic hosting capacity in MV\LV power distribution networks considering voltage, capacity, and harmonic constraints

The integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems into medium voltage (MV) power distribution networks is a key aspect of transitioning to sustainable and renewable energy sources. In this paper, a practical framework is introduced for the comprehensive analysis of PV Hosting Capacity (HC) in combined medium (MV) and low voltage (LV) networks. The key limitations that are considered include voltage magnitude, system capacity, and harmonic pollution in addition to protection system considerations. The methodology involves load and PV profiles in addition to Harmonic Power Flow (HPF) analysis for determination of the system condition. Numerous simulation tests are performed to encompass a comprehensive range of conditions and scenarios on three case studies: a simple LV radial test network, combined IEEE 33 bus with CIGRE LV underground network, and a real distribution feeder in south Khorasan, Iran. Varied real-world data are simulated to provide practical insights. Results reveal the dependency of HC value for a single MV node on various restricting factors influenced by network conditions and Specifications of PV systems. Unlike existing studies that report a single maximum hosting capacity value, this study adopts a dynamic perspective, showing how HC changes with PV location, voltage level, line ampacity, and network harmonic condition. The results indicate that under conditions of low line loading (below 60%) and elevated voltage levels (above 1.03 p.u.), voltage constraints become the primary limiting factor for hosting capacity.