Cost estimation of Colombian electric power distribution by considering distributed photovoltaic generation

Abstract

This study presents a distributed photovoltaic generation (DPG) impact assessment for electric power distribution costs in Colombia. It also provides a tool for energy distribution companies to estimate the impact of DPG small scale penetration. Reference network models are used to estimate cost variations and infrastructure performance by considering technological changes caused by DPG integration in the distribution system. A real system with 1,000 distribution transformers and 11,000 customers is used. The results show that the infrastructure investment cost estimate is 39,033 million Colombian pesos (MCOP) and that the maintenance cost estimate is 3,020 MCOP. It is concluded that DPG does not have a major impact on distribution network costs.