Optimal Conductor Repositioning to Mitigate Adverse Impacts of Photovoltaics in LV Networks

Photovoltaics can cause unacceptable overvoltages in distribution networks, during their peak hour production. The reactive power consumption from the inverters is an effective method for mitigating such overvoltages in low voltage (LV) overhead distribution networks. This manuscript proposes an optimal repositioning of the conductors of LV overhead distribution network, in order to maximize the benefits of reactive power control. More specifically, the repositioning intends to minimize the R/X ratio of the LV overhead network, which can increase the voltage to reactive power sensitivity and reduce, significantly, the consumption of reactive power from the PV inverters.