Evaluating the value of distributed generation

The transition of power sector from conventional sources to renewable resources is critical to be on the path to reduce carbon emission and achieve the targets set in line with the Paris Agreement. India has set a target of reducing its emission intensity of the GDP by 45% along with an increase in the non-fossil fuel based generation of 500GW by 2030.

Furthermore, Tamil Nadu has set a target of adding 20GW of solar energy system by 2030, predominantly through distributed energy resources (DER).

Distributed renewable energy sources (DER) such as solar and battery energy storage are expected to play an increasingly important role in the power sector. Determining the most appropriate interconnection points of DER in the distribution network will therefore become a critical task for the electricity utility of the future.

SOLVA is a web-based tool with the aim to assist grid operators in assessing the network and societal value of DER. The network benefits are achieved by estimating the potential avoided (distribution, transmission & generation) cost of introducing DER in the network, while societal benefits include the potential avoided emission costs with the integration.

SOLVA allows users to,

Undertake a DT/Feeder/Substation level power flow analysis. Evaluate the network benefits and social benefits for distributed solar and energy storage.

Identify system sizes and dispatch strategies to optimize the value of distributed solar and energy storage. Through these programs we intend to provide decision makers with a tool that can aid them in identifying the optimum sizes and estimate the potential benefits (network benefit & societal benefit) of integrating DER in the power network.