Guía técnica y metodológica para la simulación de sistemas fotovoltaicos en ETAP aplicada a proyectos de consultoría y auditoría energética

Abstract

This project aimed to develop and implement a standardized methodological guide for evaluating photovoltaic solar systems during energy consulting and auditing processes, utilizing ETAP software. The methodology was developed during an internship at Corporación EMA with the goal of strengthening photovoltaic pre-feasibility studies by enhancing the accuracy, reliability, and standardization of the company's technical analyses. Initially, an assessment of the organization's evaluation process was conducted, identifying opportunities for improvement regarding the modeling and simulation of photovoltaic systems. Subsequently, a methodological guide was designed; it outlines the step-by-step procedure for modeling various electrical system components and performing direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) power flow studies, short-circuit analysis, protection coordination, and grounding grid design in accordance with IEEE Std 80. To complement the methodology, an ETAP template file (.otp) was developed containing the parameter settings for key photovoltaic system components; this facilitates the standardization of modeling processes and reduces the time required for future studies. The methodology was validated through a real-world case study that examined system behavior under both normal operating conditions and fault scenarios. The results demonstrated proper protection performance, compliance with electrical safety criteria, and effective grounding grid operation. The findings indicate that implementing a standardized methodology in ETAP serves as a highly valuable tool for conducting photovoltaic pre-feasibility studies, enabling optimized engineering timelines, improved technical analysis quality, and strengthened energy consulting processes at Corporación EMA.