Optimization of Solar Grid-Based Virtual Power Plant Using Distributed Energy Resources Customer Adoption Model: A Case Study of Indian Power Sector

The need for future sustainable energy and better transmission efficiency has advocated the large-scale integration of distributed energy resources (DER) in the utility network. The high penetration of DERs such as solar PV can potentially result in serious issues such as reverse power flow, voltage fluctuations, and utility revenue loss. The concept of a virtual power plant (VPP) can be a possible way to address these challenges through its coordinated operation of aggregated generation and flexible demand. The main goal of this research is to design the VPP model for the 11 kV distribution networks, which assists the utility in flattening its demand profile and permits high integration of grid-connected DER in a secure manner. In this study, the DER generation and load profiles of 11 kV feeders (residential and industrial) are simulated using the DER-CAM model. The results show that peak load on feeders is reduced by 37.25% and 42.78% with DER and combined DER and demand response, respectively. The solar tariff and combined operation of feeders facilitate the effective utilization of excess solar generation and prevent reverse power flow.