FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids

Giorgi Arziani; Teona Elizarashvili

doi:10.5152/tepes.2025.24036

FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids

Abstract

In recent decades, the integration of distributed energy resources (DER), primarily solar and wind, has transformed distribution grids from passive to active systems, creating challenges for grid controllability and asset utilization. Due to the intermittent and unpredictable nature of DER, expectations of improved voltage stability and profiles are often unmet in real-world operations. This has introduced significant issues for Distribution System Operators, particularly concerning voltage control and asset aging. Traditionally, voltage regulation relied on transformer tap changers, which are not equipped to handle the fast, dynamic changes caused by DER. Frequent tap adjustments accelerate transformer aging, while weak grid connections, such as in rural or mountainous areas, can lead to voltage collapse. Additionally, mismatches between generation and demand often cause active power flow to exceed infrastructure limits, leading to renewable energy curtailment or restricted grid connections. This study examines a weakly connected distribution grid in a mountainous region of Georgia, integrating 200 kW rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, a 200 kW ground-mounted solar plant, and a 200 kW hydropower plant. Due to the high costs and geographical constraints associated with network reinforcements in such regions, the study explores the deployment of distribution Flexible alternating current (AC) Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices, specifically Static Volt-Ampere-Reactive (VAR) Compensator (SVC) devices, as an effective solution. The study focuses on how improvements can be achieved through reactive power compensation and advanced voltage regulation, addressing voltage instability, and enhancing power flow management. Multidomain analysis highlights the effectiveness of SVC devices in managing the challenges of DER integration while deferring costly grid reinforcements.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Electrical Energy Transmission, Networks and Systems

Journal Section

Research Article

Authors

Giorgi Arziani ^* This is me
0009-0006-5599-5940
Georgia

Teona Elizarashvili This is me
0000-0002-6892-1151
Georgia

Publication Date

June 16, 2025

Submission Date

December 20, 2024

Acceptance Date

March 21, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2025 Volume: 5 Number: 2

DOI

https://doi.org/10.5152/tepes.2025.24036

IZ

https://izlik.org/JA54GJ52RS

Cite

RIS / Bibtex

APA

Arziani, G., & Elizarashvili, T. (2025). FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids. Turkish Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems, 5(2), 105-113. https://doi.org/10.5152/tepes.2025.24036

AMA

1.Arziani G, Elizarashvili T. FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids. TEPES. 2025;5(2):105-113. doi:10.5152/tepes.2025.24036

Chicago

Arziani, Giorgi, and Teona Elizarashvili. 2025. “FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids”. Turkish Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems 5 (2): 105-13. https://doi.org/10.5152/tepes.2025.24036.

EndNote

Arziani G, Elizarashvili T (June 1, 2025) FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids. Turkish Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems 5 2 105–113.

IEEE

[1]G. Arziani and T. Elizarashvili, “FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids”, TEPES, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 105–113, June 2025, doi: 10.5152/tepes.2025.24036.

ISNAD

Arziani, Giorgi - Elizarashvili, Teona. “FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids”. Turkish Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems 5/2 (June 1, 2025): 105-113. https://doi.org/10.5152/tepes.2025.24036.

JAMA

1.Arziani G, Elizarashvili T. FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids. TEPES. 2025;5:105–113.

MLA

Arziani, Giorgi, and Teona Elizarashvili. “FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids”. Turkish Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems, vol. 5, no. 2, June 2025, pp. 105-13, doi:10.5152/tepes.2025.24036.

Vancouver

1.Giorgi Arziani, Teona Elizarashvili. FACTS for Effective DER Integration into the Georgia Distribution Grids. TEPES. 2025 Jun. 1;5(2):105-13. doi:10.5152/tepes.2025.24036