Maximising the Benefits of Distributed Solar Energy: An Evaluation

The state of Tamil Nadu in India is making significant progress towards a sustainable energy future by aiming to add 20 GW of solar energy capacity and 10 GW of battery energy storage capacity by 2030. The adoption of grid-connected distributed solar energy is being driven by policies and regulatory frameworks such as the Tamil Nadu Solar Policy and the Generic Tariff Order. As the use of distributed generation systems increases, the importance of considering the impact of integrating distributed generation into the distribution network becomes critical.

This report focuses on evaluating the impact of introducing distributed solar energy in the Karungalpalayam HT Feeder under the Erode substation. The analysis, conducted using the Solva tool, provides insights in the network benefits and societal benefits achieved from the  integration. For Karungalpalayam HT Feeder, the integration of a 4.50 MW solar energy system at the tail end of the feeder yields a total benefit of INR 12.84 per kWh, with societal benefits contributing 69% and network benefits contributing 31% to this value. The integration also results in reduced distribution line losses and a deferral of feeder upgradation, particularly when interconnected closer to the point of consumption in the Karungalpalayam HT feeder.


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