Performance Analysis of Solar PV-Based Renewable Power Distributed Generation in the Sapele Distribution Network
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High technical losses, poor voltage regulation, and overloaded transformers remain major challenges in many Nigerian distribution networks, including the Sapele 11 kV feeder. This study evaluated the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV)-based distributed generation (DG) as a technical solution for improving network performance. A simulation-based approach was adopted using ETAP for load-flow analysis and the Newton–Raphson method for steady-state evaluation, while the Bat Algorithm was applied to determine the optimal location and size of DG units. The assessment focused on voltage profile, active power loss, reactive power loss, and transformer loading before and after DG integration. The results showed that DG integration significantly improved network operation. The minimum bus voltage increased from 87.82% to above 97%, total active power loss dropped from 1013.84 kW to 93.11 kW, and reactive power loss was also markedly reduced. In addition, heavily overloaded transformers were relieved, with critical units reduced to acceptable loading levels. These findings indicate that optimally allocated solar PV-based DG can strengthen distribution network performance, improve service reliability, and provide a practical support option for weak radial feeders in Nigeria.
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