DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2010.69
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/294
Date of Award
6-2010
Degree Name
MS in Electrical Engineering
Department/Program
Electrical Engineering
Advisor
Ali Shaban
Abstract
Distributed generation is becoming increasingly prevalent on power grids around the world. Conventional designs and grid operations are not always sufficient for handling the implementation of distributed generation units; the new generation may result in undesirable operating conditions, or system failure. This paper investigates the primary issues involved with the implementation of distributed generation and maintaining the integrity of the power grid. The issues addressed include power flow, system protections, voltage regulation, intermittency, harmonics, and islanding. A case study is also presented to illustrate how these issues can be addressed when designing distributed generation installation on an existent distribution system. The case study design is performed on the campus distribution system of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, with the design goal of implementing renewable energy sources to make the campus a net zero energy consumer.