A literature review is presented in this paper of the methods for quantifying the solar PV hosting capacity of low-voltage distribution grids. Three fundamentally different methods are considered: i) deterministic ii) stochastic iii) time series. The methods’ outline of applications, merits and shortfalls are summarized. The methods differ in the input data, accuracy, accuracy, computation time, consideration of uncertainties, consideration of the time-related influence and the models used. Two types of uncertainties need to be considered: certain (aleatory) uncertainties and uncertain (epistemic) uncertainties. The latter ones are only included in some of the stochastic methods.

In most of the reviewed publications, the voltage magnitude rise and increased loading with increased risk of overvoltage and overloading (for lines, cables and transformers) were the main phenomena considered in the hosting capacity study.

This review offers guidelines for distribution system planners on which hosting-capacity method to be used and to researchers on research gaps.