Study of the Penetration of Photovoltaics into the Libyan Power System

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impacts of the penetration of Photovoltaic (PV) power generation on the Libyan power system with reference to voltage profile improvement and overall system performance. Integration of solar power generation with the Libyan electric power grid would provide a boost to the generation of clean electricity by harnessing renewable energy resources. Such an approach will reduce greenhouse gas GHG emissions by supplying zero-emission solar power to the grid and thereby mitigating overall CO2 emissions. The many advantages of integration of PV are lower fuel consumption and less reliance on traditional fuel sources, clean energy, less operation, and maintenance cost as compared to diesel generators and the possibility of exporting the saved fuel to enhance the economic health of Libya. This dissertation presents a brief description of the Libyan power system with its past, the current state of generation, transmission infrastructure and potential solar power plans. Further, this thesis has considered several solar energy scenarios for Libya, modeling of solar irradiation for a few locations considered in this study and the impact of solar PV generation on the voltage profile and overall performance of the Libyan electric power grid.