As the world shifts towards greener energy solutions, the integration of renewable sources like photovoltaic (PV) systems presents both opportunities and challenges. A recent study led by Teshome Hambissa from the Addis Ababa Institute of Technology highlights the critical role of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in addressing the frequency control issues that arise from high PV penetration in power grids, particularly in the context of the Ethiopian-Kenya high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link.
The rapid adoption of PV technology has led to a significant displacement of traditional synchronous generators (SGs), which are crucial for maintaining system stability. With fewer SGs in operation, the power system experiences reduced inertia, making it more susceptible to frequency deviations during load-generation imbalances or unexpected disturbances. “The limited inertial response from PV generation cannot match the support provided by synchronous generators,” Hambissa noted. This situation necessitates innovative strategies to ensure grid reliability.
The study introduces a fast frequency control (FFC) technique using BESS, which can enhance the power system’s inertial response and mitigate instantaneous frequency deviations (IFD). By modeling droop-type controlled BESS, the research demonstrates how these systems can provide additional damping and stabilize the grid when faced with fluctuations in power generation. The simulations conducted using DIgSILENT software underscore the effectiveness of this approach in managing the adverse impacts of high PV penetration.
The implications of this research extend beyond technical improvements; they present significant commercial opportunities for the energy sector. By integrating BESS into existing grid systems, operators can enhance resilience against the volatility introduced by renewable energy sources. This capability could attract investment in energy storage technologies, fostering a more robust and flexible energy market. “Our findings suggest that with the right technology in place, countries like Ethiopia can better harness their renewable resources while ensuring a stable energy supply,” Hambissa emphasized.
As countries continue to prioritize renewable energy in their energy portfolios, studies like this one published in the ‘International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems’ (translated as ‘International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems’) are vital. They provide a roadmap for integrating advanced technologies that can support grid stability while promoting sustainability. The potential for BESS to transform energy management practices is profound, suggesting a future where renewable energy can be utilized effectively and efficiently, paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient energy landscape.
For more information on Teshome Hambissa’s work, you can visit the Addis Ababa Institute of Technology’s website at lead_author_affiliation.
