A Full AC Time‐Series Analysis of Photovoltaic Hosting Capacity in Niger's Grid

Abstract

The integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems into sub‐Saharan African distribution grids presents a transformative opportunity to enhance energy access and sustainability. However, accurately quantifying the hosting capacity (HC), the maximum PV power that can be accommodated without violating operational limits, remains a major challenge under variable generation and demand. This paper presents a full alternating current (AC) time‐series analysis of PV HC in Niger's River‐Zone (RZ) distribution grid using hourly resolution over a full year. The methodology applies α‐scanning to determine the maximum admissible PV scaling factor (αmax), constrained by voltage and thermal limits. Detailed grid modeling in Pandapower is coupled with dynamic voltage regulation through multi‐step capacitor bank control to capture the benefits of reactive power support. Results showed that HC was a highly time‐dependent metric, with significant intra‐ and inter‐day variability shaped by PV availability, load patterns, and grid conditions. The voltage remained within regulatory bounds (0.9–1.05 p.u), and all thermal constraints were met, thus validating the control strategy. Daily HC values frequently approached or surpassed the available PV generation potential, suggesting that the network retained additional margin for further PV integration under existing operating conditions. The calculated penetration ratio reached up to 50% with minimal intraday variability, indicating consistent alignment between PV output and load demand throughout daylight hours. This dynamic framework offers critical insights for planning high‐renewable penetration in weak grids. It supports informed investment decisions and provides a replicable, data‐driven approach for PV integration across emerging economies.