Can photovoltaic energy be distributed?

This work presents a review of energy storage and redistribution associated with photovoltaic energy, proposing a distributed micro-generation complex connected to the electrical power grid using energy storage systems, with an emphasis placed on the use of NaS batteries.

Do distributed photovoltaic systems contribute to the power balance?

Tom Key, Electric Power Research Institute. Distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems currently make an insignificant contribution to the power balance on all but a few utility distribution systems.

Are photovoltaic systems suitable for electrical distributed generation?

In function of their characteristics, photovoltaic systems are adequate to be used for electrical distributed generation. It is a modular technology which permits installation conforming to demand, space availability and financial resources.

Do energy storage subsystems integrate with distributed PV?

Energy storage subsystems need to be identified that can integrate with distributed PV to enable intentional islanding or other ancillary services. Intentional islanding is used for backup power in the event of a grid power outage, and may be applied to customer-sited UPS applications or to larger microgrid applications.

Can a photovoltaic system attend more than one consumer?

Fig. 3 presents a schematic diagram of a photovoltaic system connected to an electrical distribution grid; in this case the system attends only one consumer, but can be expanded to attend a group of consumers.

Is energy storage a viable option for utility-scale solar energy systems?

Energy storage has become an increasingly common component of utility-scale solar energy systems in the United States. Much of NREL's analysis for this market segment focuses on the grid impacts of solar-plus-storage systems, though costs and benefits are also frequently considered.