The Impact of Solar Power Plants on the Electricity Grid: A Case Study of Albania

The demand for electricity in Albania has risen significantly in recent years, accompanied by a growing emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly development. As a result, the focus of electricity generation is increasingly shifting towards renewable sources, particularly solar energy. In recent years, several large-scale solar plants have been installed across the country. While these solar farms offer notable benefits, they also present challenges for the electrical grid. This paper explores the impact of renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, on the operation of the power system. The growing share of renewable energy, such as solar, has significant implications for the stability of electricity transmission. This research work examines four different scenarios and evaluates various technical parameters related to electrical power quality to assess the effects of integrating solar plants into the power system. Specifically, the analysis focuses on the active power losses and voltage fluctuations in the electrical distribution network following the connection of solar plants through the main distribution grid. Simulations were conducted using the Electrical Transient Analyzer Program (ETAP) software platform. The results suggest that a substantial penetration of solar energy into the grid may lead to increased losses in both active and reactive power.