Investigation the Effect of Hydroelectric Power Plants on the Electricity Distribution Network

Abstract

The rapid depletion of fossil fuel reserves such as coal, oil, and natural gas worldwide, transportation difficulties, and environmental damage are driving people toward renewable energy sources. Hydroelectric energy is the most common renewable energy source. Our country possesses a rich hydroelectric energy potential and is determined to utilize it. These facilities have met some of our growing energy needs and made significant contributions to our economy. However, the integration of numerous hydroelectric power plants into our existing energy grid also creates some technical problems. Electricity generation facilities directly connected to the electricity distribution grid, in particular, deteriorate power quality in their regions and cause sudden changes in voltage and frequency. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the challenges encountered in integrating hydroelectric power plants into the electricity distribution grid and the studies conducted on this issue. It is also to examine in detail the benefits that hydroelectric power plants directly connected to the electricity distribution grid provide, the problems they cause, and the proposed solutions to these problems. It is anticipated that the analyses will benefit grid operators and researchers in the future.