Georgia Power, EPRI study solar's impact on distribution systems

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Georgia Power and the Electric Power Research Institute are doing an 18-month study to evaluate the impact solar photovoltaic systems might have on the utility's distribution system.

PV systems are being installed in seven cities throughout the state with seven to eight small installations on one distribution line in each city. EPRI will monitor each module's sunlight input and power output at one-second intervals to measure how much electric power they generate and how well they perform under a variety of weather conditions. The research is intended to:

·         Identify any effects on the distribution system's operation

·         Understand the feasibility of widespread solar installation on distribution lines

·         Determine PV performance ranges in Georgia

·         Compare variables such as passing clouds and other weather changes

A Georgia Power spokesman said the small installations won't add a significant amount of power to the distribution lines, but will provide useful information on PV generation and how it relates to the electric grid.

Quick Take: I guess it will be nice to have another thorough EPRI study on the shelves. But I'm not sure everyone can wait 18 months. My friends at California utilities say rooftop solar is already causing wide and wild fluctuations. – Jesse Berst

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