Abstract:
Renewable energy resources are increasingly being used in Uganda due to its abundancy and
cost. This includes solar energy, which is a promising alternative to the growing renewable
energy usage, like hydro energy. Large solar power systems have gained popularity in Uganda,
for example Busitema solar plant, Tororo Solar North, and the Soroti solar plant. The efficiency
of these solar plants not only depends on the energy being generated but also on their integration
into the existing grid infrastructure
In this study, an assessment of the impact of distributing these large grids tied solar PV systems
along the network line using the Tororo-Busia 33kV feeder and Busitema solar plant as the case
study is done so as to assess the efficiency of power transmission in these cases. The analysis is
done through performing simulations using DIgSILENT PowerFactory to model the difference in
network losses for both the centralized and distributed configurations. The effects of the solar
power intermittencies influenced by effects like time of the day and weather conditions are also
analyzed.
The results prove that, with a distributed solar PV configuration, power losses are reduced i.e.,
I2R losses and this improves the efficiency of power distribution. With these reduced power
losses, more energy savings are experienced, hence translating to more power saved, hence
supporting the case the distributed solar deployment in Uganda. This provides insight that can be
used by regulatory bodies and utility companies on optimal planning strategies to maximize the
economic and technical benefits. This is in line with the country's goals to reduce energy
wastage.
