The active implementation of distributed Photovoltaic (PV) systems is a key element of Ukraine’s energy transition, aligning with global trends in decarbonization and enhanced energy resilience (Smith & Jones, 2020, p. 45). However, the mass connection of PV systems to existing electrical grids creates a number of critical technical challenges. Specifically, issues arise concerning voltage fluctuations, reverse power flow, and the need to balance generation and consumption under conditions of high uncertainty from solar power generation. These challenges complicate grid management and can reduce the quality of electricity for end-users.

To overcome these problems, the modernization of infrastructure, particularly the integration of Smart Grid technologies, is necessary. The Smart Grid concept enables the implementation of bidirectional communication and real-time monitoring, providing the flexibility required to manage distributed generation. Key elements of this integration include Energy Storage Systems (ESS), Demand Response (DR) technologies, and advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems (Brown, 2021, p. 112). The deployment of ESS at the household, community, or substation level allows for effective smoothing of generation and consumption peaks, minimizing the impact of PV systems on grid stability.

Research indicates that the optimal placement and control of ESS can reduce voltage fluctuations by 10-15% during peak solar generation hours, which is critically important for rural and remote areas with weak grid infrastructure (White, 2022). DR technologies, in turn, allow shifting consumer loads to periods of excess PV generation, optimizing the use of renewable energy and reducing the need for traditional power plant backup capacity. In the context of Ukraine, this is especially relevant for increasing the cyber resilience and physical security of the energy system through its decentralization.

To ensure the effectiveness of integration processes, the development of new forecasting and optimization algorithms is also necessary. These algorithms must take into account meteorological data, load profiles, and dynamic tariffs to make decisions regarding the charging/discharging of ESS and the activation of DR programs. Thus, the transition to a Smart Grid is not merely an equipment upgrade but a fundamental change in approaches to managing energy flows. Further research will focus on modeling the economic efficiency and operational sustainability of integrated systems in an unstable market environment.

References:

1. Brown, A. D. (2021). Smart Grid Architectures: Integrating Renewable Energy. Elsevier.
2. Smith, C., & Jones, K. (2020). The Role of Distributed Generation in Energy Security. Energy Policy Review, 14(2), 35-50.
3. 3. White, J. L. (2022). Voltage Control in Low-Voltage Networks with High PV Penetration. IEEE Transactions on Power Systems, 37(1), 105–115.