Virtual power plant application for managing rooftop solar photovoltaic systems

This thesis examines the comprehensive definitions of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) along with how it is integrated with other components to work in synergy. A VPP system is made up of DERs and a centralized control system. A VPP system is named either wind VPP or solar VPP depending on the type of the generation unit. Investigating the integration of rooftop solar VPPs into the entire systems of traditional grid systems is a prerequisite. MATLAB simulation software is used for building a simplified Solar VPP system. The outputs of generation units are optimized to avoid large turbulences and interference of power dissemination processes. The main control procedure is based on whether there is a surplus or shortage of power. In any case shortage or surplus has to be compensated by the grid. The VPP network consists of three individual rooftop solar generators connected to the grid. The main goal of a renewable energy-based VPP system is to help reduce energy generation costs and integrate renewable energy sources (RES) into the total power output of the grid, as it indirectly contributes to low levels of carbon in the atmosphere. Several countries are taking the lead in experimentation and installation of solar VPP systems as pilot programs. VPP systems are meant to replace the traditional grids with the collective involvement of consumers and suppliers.