Power Quality Management Using FACTS Device for Grid-Connected PV Solar and Wind Turbine Systems

Year 2025, Volume: 5 Issue: 1, 54 - 65, 28.02.2025

John Abban Patrick Nyaaba Ayambire Francois Sekyere Albert Awopone

https://doi.org/10.5152/tepes.2025.24029

Abstract

This study investigates the use of Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices for power quality management in grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) solar and wind turbine systems within the GA West Municipal District electricity grid in Accra. With a growing reliance on renewable energy sources for sustainable solutions, understanding their impact on low-voltage (LV) networks and effective management strategies is crucial. The study aims to assess the effects of hybrid PV and wind systems, modeling and simulating the GA West Network and IEEE Low-Voltage Distribution Network (LVDN) while focusing on power factor, active power, and reactive power. A 19-busbar test network was modeled to evaluate PV and wind turbine integration with the grid, and the IEEE-LVDN was used for validation. The study employed MATLAB/Simulink simulations. Results show that FACTS devices substantially improve power factor, achieving near-unity levels, and enhance overall network performance by reducing active and reactive power losses. The analysis confirms that FACTS devices boost system capacity, stability, and dynamic behavior. The findings indicate that integrating FACTS devices in grid-connected renewable systems effectively manages power quality and optimizes network performance.

Keywords

Low-voltage distribution , network , power factor , power quality management , solar PV

Thanks

This work was performed at the Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), Power and Energy Research Laboratory (PERL). The authors appreciate the use of PERL facilities and resources.

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