Abstract

As more photovoltaic (PV) systems are added to distribution networks, they have a noticeable effect on voltage profiles and power losses. In this study, we examined PV integration in a 38-bus Bazar feeder at the Dhulabari distribution center using the DIgSILENT PowerFactory. We performed load-flow analyses at different PV penetration levels by placing the PV systems near the source (Bus 4), in the middle (Bus 19), and at the end (Bus 38) of the feeder. The results showed that at a low penetration level (10%), installing the PV system at the end bus (bus 38) reduced power losses the most. At higher penetration levels, placing the PV system in the middle (bus 19) was more effective for minimizing losses. With 40% PV penetration (2160 kW), the system had better voltage regulation and lower power losses. Installing PV at Bus 19 reduced active and reactive losses by 40% and 44.83%, respectively. The lowest bus voltage (Bus 38) increased to 9.80 kV in this setup. To further improve the voltage profile, we added an 840 kV Ar capacitor bank at Bus 34 (the weakest bus) along with 40% PV at Bus 19. This setup reduced the active power loss by 54% and reactive power loss by 58.62%, leading to much better system performance. Overall, this study shows that placing PV units and capacitor banks at appropriate locations can improve the voltage stability and efficiency in radial distribution systems.