Impact of Solar Panel on the Transformer Performance: A Case Study

Transformer is the most important part of any transmission system, so it is necessary to have the transformer in proper working order for uninterrupted power supply in the various locations in around the substations. Renewable energy replaces the conventional energy sources at the fast rate in various parts of the world. Due to high penetration of renewable energy, the installed transformers have observational impact on their insulation, leading to degradation of transformer life. This paper presents a case study of Gujarat solar power plant to find the impact of photovoltaic (PV) penetration on transformer performance in the time span of 1 year. A PV plant has various impacts on performance parameters of transformers. The working of on-load tap changer is also affected by the presence of PV. The main cause behind the altered performance of transformer in the presence of solar panel is its associated inverters that are used to supply linear loads. A higher temperature rise will occur in the windings and cores of the transformer due to voltage and current harmonics, resulting in extra losses. This paper presents the cumulative effect of solar plant on the transformer working during a period of 1 year and finds both negative and positive impact on transformer parameters.