Enhancing Primary Frequency Control in Microgrids through Self-Smoothing Photovoltaic Systems

The intermittency of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation creates challenges for power systems frequency control which raises the need to employ fast-acting reserves e.g., battery energy storage systems (BESS) to improve the system frequency response. This paper explores the concept of orientational smoothing together with the frequency control of deloaded PV systems to improve self-balancing, reduce reliance on BESS, and ensure more consistent availability of the regulation reserves. The methodology involves EMT-type simulations for seven different cases of distributed PV orientations. These cases are studied for three different frequency control scenarios of a microgrid. The results demonstrate that PV systems with real rooftop and east-west orientations exhibit reduced frequency deviations and reduced rate of change of frequency.