Investigating Smart grid approaches for optimal integration of pv distributed energy resources in Dubai

The rapid deployment of grid-connected roof-top photovoltaic systems in Dubai, as part of "Shams Dubai" initiatives and the anticipated high penetration of distributed PV generation have both raised several challenges and urged the need to study the technical solutions to address higher PV penetration levels. The intermittent nature of PV distributed generation could adversely impact the voltage profile and stability of distribution feeders throughout the daily load cycle resulting in voltage fluctuations and flicker that violate the established utility guidelines for voltage regulations. Moreover, the existing distribution networks were not designed to operate with intermittent sources of generation at medium or low voltage levels. This paper discusses several smart grid strategies for Distributed Energy Resources (DER) integration including advanced control of smart inverters, automated demand response, and technical and regulation enhancement for DER integration to improve the PV hosting capacity of distribution feeders and enable wider deployments of roof-top PV systems, thus achieving successful renewable transformation of the existing power systems. A survey was conducted to investigate the existing solar PV projects in Dubai and identify the key challenges of the existing interconnection standards. The initial survey results and recommendations for PV integration strategy and grid interconnection regulations enhancement are presented.