Comparative Analysis of the Substitution Effect of Smart Inverter-Based Energy Storage Systems on the Improvement of Distribution System Hosting Capacity Using Vertical Photovoltaic Systems

Seungmin Lee (), Garam Kim, Seungwoo Son and Junghun Lee
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Seungmin Lee: KEPCO Research Institute, 11 Hyeoksinsandan 1-gil, Naju 58277, Republic of Korea
Garam Kim: KEPCO Research Institute, 11 Hyeoksinsandan 1-gil, Naju 58277, Republic of Korea
Seungwoo Son: KEPCO Research Institute, 11 Hyeoksinsandan 1-gil, Naju 58277, Republic of Korea
Junghun Lee: KEPCO Research Institute, 11 Hyeoksinsandan 1-gil, Naju 58277, Republic of Korea

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 16, 1-15

Abstract: Renewable energy sources, particularly solar photovoltaics (PVs), are rapidly expanding to achieve carbon neutrality. Integrated photovoltaic (IPV) solutions in underutilized spaces offer a viable option for countries with land constraints and public opposition. Vertical PV (VPV) systems, featuring bifacial solar modules installed vertically, facing east and west, present a promising alternative. In contrast to conventional tilted PV (CPV) systems, which peak around midday, VPV systems generate more power in the morning and afternoon. This mitigates issues such as the duck curve and curtailment caused by midday overgeneration. Moreover, combining VPV and CPV systems can increase the solar hosting capacity of a distribution line (DL) for PV-system interconnections, driving research interest. This study assessed the hosting-capacity improvements from VPV systems by analyzing voltage fluctuations and thermal constraints using OpenDSS software (Version 9.1.1.1). The potential substitution effect of a smart inverter-based energy-storage system (ESS) was also explored. The analysis, based on real-grid conditions in South Korea, incorporated actual DL data, generation and demand profiles, and operational data from both VPV and CPV systems. Worst-case scenarios were simulated to evaluate their impact on grid stability. The results demonstrate that VPV systems can increase hosting capacity by up to 23% and ensure stable grid operation by reducing power-generation uncertainties.

Keywords: renewable energy; photovoltaic system; vertical photovoltaic system; smart inverter; hosting capacity; energy-storage system (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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