Solva is a python-based toolbox for simulating and analyzing the technical and economic benefits of modern power systems with distributed renewable energy sources. The Solva web tool allows users to:
• Undertake a feeder/DT/substation level power flow analysis.
• Evaluate the network benefits and social benefits for distributed solar and energy storage.
• Identify system sizes and dispatch strategies to optimize the value of distributed solar and energy storage.

Why use Solva?
Solva tool helps to accelerate integration of distributed solar energy and storage systems interconnected at the distribution network and support electricity utilities in identifying opportunities for interconnection of distributed solar and energy storage systems by utilizing an approach called ‘value of distributed energy resource or VODER methodology’.

VODER methodology takes a systems approach to establishing the value of the electricity generated by DER. DER generation has some unique features: power generation occurs close to the point of consumption, no marginal cost of generation (no fuel cost) and significant environmental advantages over conventional generation based on coal. These characteristics allow the utilities to reduce their energy costs, and avoid generation, transmission and distribution capacity costs. In addition, there are avoided social and environmental externalities of fossil fuel-based generation. Adapting a VODER methodology represents an opportunity for states and utilities across the country to begin to assess the benefits of distributed generation and better plan for energy investments that provide maximum network and societal benefits. The VODER methodology can be made a part of:
• Integrated resource planning of utilities
• Determination of feed-in tariffs for distributed solar

Features
Solva provides the following output

• 1. Avoided network costs
  • Avoided network costs
  • Avoided cost of energy (ACE)
  • Avoided transmission capacity costs (ATCC)
  • Avoided distribution capacity cost (ADCC)
  • Avoided generation capacity cost (AGCC)

• 2. Avoided social and environmental costs
  • Avoided CO2 emission costs
  • Avoided SO2 emission costs
  • Avoided NO2 emission costs
  • A voided PM2.5 emission costs