Assessing Costs of Community Solar Integration via Optimal Distribution Grid Expansion

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of distribution grid upgrades costs necessary to integrate Community Solar (CS) projects. The innovative methodology proposed for this quantification is based on incremental least-cost expansion of the distribution system, encompassing both traditional and non-traditional grid upgrade strategies. Realistic infrastructure investment costs are obtained using a dataset of over 2,500 feeders, including various loading scenarios, and compared with empirical costs of integrating real CS projects. The results are then used to evaluate costs and deferrals from the consumers' and project developers' perspectives, assess the nature of the infrastructure upgrades and explore the potential benefits of a strategic siting of CS projects. This analysis is summarized in a set of regulatory and policy recommendations to support planning and valuation aspects related to CS.