Análisis del impacto de la Generación Distribuida sobre la calidad de energía en redes de la Empresa Eléctrica Azogues C.A

Abstract

The increasing integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) into medium and low-voltage networks generates bidirectional current flows, disrupting their conventional operation and affecting power quality. This work analyzes the impact of Self-Consumption Distributed Generation Systems (SGDA) on the power quality of the Empresa Eléctrica Azogues C.A. (EEA) networks through a study of two cases. Variations in voltage, flicker, harmonics, and voltage imbalance are evaluated following the integration of these systems, verifying compliance with Ecuadorian regulations and standard norms. The methodology includes a review of the state of the art regarding the effects of distributed generation on power quality, analysis of IEEE and ARCERNNR standards, field measurements, and simulations using Open Distribution System Simulator (OpenDSS) software with scenarios considering the connection of photovoltaic systems and energy storage. The results confirm power quality issues, such as voltage fluctuations and harmonic distortion, suggesting mitigations with devices like D-STATCOM, OLTC, and batteries. Simulations in OpenDSS corroborate the field data, showing improvements in voltage profiles and an increase in flicker and harmonics during photovoltaic production. Based on these findings, technical criteria are established for the future integration of SGDA into EEA networks, focusing on inverter requirements according to national and international standards.