Technical requirements for connecting medium and large solar power plants to electricity networks in Egypt

Abstract EN

This paper discusses basics of the technical design specifications, criteria, technical terms and equipment parameters required to connect Medium Scale Solar Plants (MSSPs) and Large Scale Solar Plants (LSSPs) to the electricity networks in Egypt.

The MSSPs range from 500 kW up to less than 20 MW can be connected either to Medium Voltage (MV) distribution networks or to High Voltage (HV) transmission network.

Successful connection of an MSSP should satisfy requirements of both the Solar Energy Grid Connection Code (SEGCC) and the Electricity Distribution Code (EDC), if connected to the distribution network, or the Grid Code (GC) if connected to the transmission network.

Also, connection of a LSSP to the transmission network should satisfy the requirements of both SEGCC and the GC.

The SEGCC specifies the special requirements for the connection of MSSPs and LSSPs to the appropriate networks in Egypt.

The EDC sets out the rules and procedures to regulate technical and legal relationship between distribution utilities and users of the distribution networks.

The GC sets out the rules and procedures to regulate technical and legal relationship between the transmission utility and users of the transmission network.

The aim is to maintain optimal operation, safety and reliability of the power system.

The technical specifications including permitted voltage and frequency variations in addition to power quality measures such as limits of harmonic distortion, phase unbalance, and flickers.

MSSP and LSSP operational limits, capability requirements, etc.

will be explained and discussed.