Assessing the Influence of Grid-Connected PV Systems on Algeria's Low Voltage Distribution Network

Madjid   Chikh; Aicha DEGLA; Smain Berkane; Achour Mahrane; Abdalbaset Mnider

doi:10.51646/jsesd.v14i2.548

Authors

Madjid Chikh Le Commissariat aux énergies renouvelables et à l'efficacité énergétique (CEREFE), B.P.23, Docteur Asselah Slimane, Alger Centre 16000.
Aicha DEGLA CDER https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0415-9479
Smain Berkane Unité de Développement des Equipements Solaires UDES, Algiers, Algeria, Route nationale N 11, BP 386, Boui-Smail, 42415, wilaya de Tipaza.
Achour Mahrane Unité de Développement des Equipements Solaires UDES, Algiers, Algeria, Route nationale N 11, BP 386, Boui-Smail, 42415, wilaya de Tipaza.
Abdalbaset Mnider Dept. of Electronic & Electrical Eng University of Strathclyde Bahrain, Manama, Bahrain. And Elmergib University AlKhums, Libya. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7378-0883

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51646/jsesd.v14i2.548

Keywords:

PV Grid-connected, Standard EN50160, Power quality, renewable energy, THD, power factor.

Abstract

The integration of renewable energy into power systems is a growing area of interest, particularly in regions with high solar potential. This study investigates the impact of a 12.5 kWp multi-technology photovoltaic (PV) power station on the local utility grid. The system comprises five PV arrays using different technologies, installed on the rooftop and façade of the UDES/CDER conference room in Tipaza, Algeria. Experimental data were collected to evaluate the grid voltage variations at the grid-connected point under real operating conditions. Voltage levels remained within the EN 50160 standard limits, with fluctuations typically ranging from 229 V to 236 V. The total harmonic distortion (THD) of current remained below 5% during peak injection periods, meeting IEC 61000-3-2 standards. Statistical analysis of THD and power factor (PF) distributions for three PV power output levels showed that more than 80% of current THD values were concentrated in the 5–10% range, with standard deviations decreasing as PV output increased. Voltage THD means decreased from 2.42 to 2.26 with rising PV generation, and over 96% of values were well below the EN 15160 limit.

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