On the afternoon of April 23, 2026, the Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (FEEE), Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU), in collaboration with University of Agder (Norway), successfully organized an online seminar titled “Impacts of the EU Solar Rooftop Initiative on Low-Voltage Distribution Grids and Potential Solutions from the Perspective of Distribution System Operators (DSOs)”. The event attracted a large number of students, reflecting the growing interest in modern energy systems and power grid challenges.
The seminar was delivered by Professor Joao Leal, Head of the Energy Systems Research Group at University of Agder. The presentation focused on key technical challenges associated with high penetration of photovoltaic (PV) systems into low-voltage networks, including overvoltage caused by reverse power flow, rapid voltage fluctuations affecting power quality, three-phase voltage imbalance, and the risk of thermal overloading in distribution lines and transformers.
Based on one-year simulation studies under various PV penetration scenarios, the results indicated that increasing PV capacity significantly raises reverse power flow through transformers. Moreover, critical operating periods tend to shift from winter to summer due to high PV generation combined with lower load demand. Mitigation measures such as PV curtailment and automatic voltage regulation were also introduced and evaluated.
The findings highlight a fundamental transition of low-voltage grids - from demand-driven operation to generation-driven operation with distributed energy resources - requiring substantial changes in both planning and operational strategies of grid operators.
The seminar provided valuable and up-to-date practical insights into renewable energy integration, enabling students to better understand key technical issues as well as future trends in power systems. It also offered an excellent opportunity for students to access international academic knowledge, thereby inspiring learning and research in a globally integrated context.
Some photos from the seminar:
