Int J Performability Eng ›› 2024, Vol. 20 ›› Issue (3): 149-156.doi: 10.23940/ijpe.24.03.p3.149156

Previous Articles     Next Articles

Reliability Assessment of Distribution System Grid-Connected Multi-Inverter for Solar Photo-Voltaic Systems: A Case Study

Darius Muyizerea,*, Arcade Nshimiyimanab, Theophile Mugerwac, Lawrence K. Lettingd, and Bernard B. Munyazikwiyee   

  1. aAfrican Centre of Excellence in Energy and Sustainable Development, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda;
    bDepartment of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, IPRC Tumba - Rwanda Polytechnic, Northern Province, Rwanda;
    cDepartment of Geology, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda;
    dElectrical and Communications Engineering, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya;
    eDepartment of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
  • Submitted on ; Revised on ; Accepted on
  • Contact: *E-mail address: muyizeredarius@gmail.com

Abstract: The contemporary electrical grid aims to deliver safe and reliable energy to consumers. As technology advances and distributed generation (DG) becomes more prevalent, the distribution system grows increasingly complex and decentralized. The swift integration of renewable energy sources, driven by concerns about global warming and carbon emissions, adds to this complexity. Given the direct link between the distribution system and consumer needs, reliability is paramount. However, the current distribution system faces operational issues, necessitating a dependable, resilient power system devoid of interruptions and glitches. Distributed generation (DG), along with its grid integration, holds promise in significantly enhancing the reliability of the existing distribution system. This research studied a case study of distribution system reliability evaluation using solar PV in the system. Various instances were addressed, and we found that after implementing DG, system dependability increased. For the case study and analysis, data were taken from a solar photo-voltaic energy source linked to the Kigali national grid in the Rwanda bus system. The Electrical Transient Analyzer Program (ETAP 19) software is utilized for modeling and reliability analysis.

Key words: distributed generation, energy resources, reliability assessment, Kigali national grid, ETAP