| dc.description.abstract | Kabulasoke solar power plant (20MW) is located in Gomba district in Central Uganda, on the hills off UETCL substation and power produced is purchased by UETCL for further sale to end users. However, evacuation of the plant on the distribution network would create an impact on the distribution network due to associated benefits which include reduced distribution losses, improved power quality and reliability among others, necessary for financial sustainability of the power sector.
The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact and benefits of integrating Kabulasoke solar power plant into the nearby distribution network.
To achieve the project objectives, the neighboring distribution network was studied to identify the available options for interconnecting the above solar plant.
The grid simulation model for the 33kV network between Mutundwe, Mityana, Kiriri, Masaka central and Masaka west substations was developed using Dig SILENT power factory 15.1 version. Load flow analysis was performed on the network before interconnecting the solar plant. Loading for different feeders were compared with those obtained from Umeme limited, to ensure accuracy.
The bus voltages for different busses were determined before and after interconnection of the solar plant at different points on the network.
Grid losses and feeder loadings were also determined for the different interconnection options, and a cost benefit analysis made to access the different options.
Interconnection of the solar plant at Kiriri substation yielded stable bus voltages at the two substations. However, an interconnection on the Mityana-Kiriri feeder yielded more stable bus voltages due to better load distribution on the network. Running two distribution feeders to two substations yielded most stable bus voltages, although the option proved to be relatively expensive.
In conclusion, an interconnection of the solar power plant provided stable and reliable power, led to reduced distribution losses and reduced on feeder loadings thus Improved power quality and reliability to the final consumer and Improved security of supply as well was positively impacting the financial status of the energy sector in Uganda. | en_US |
