In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the University of Strathclyde’s Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering have unveiled promising capabilities of offshore wind power plants (OWPPs) to restore power systems in the UK, particularly in the wake of potential blackouts. The findings, part of the SIF BLADE project, highlight how these renewable energy sources can play a crucial role in enhancing energy security as the country moves away from fossil fuels.
As the global demand for renewable energy surges, spurred by the pressing need for decarbonization, the UK has emerged as a leader in offshore wind. With ambitious targets set to achieve 50 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030, the SIF BLADE project aims to explore how OWPPs can be integrated into power system restoration (PSR) processes. “The high number of planned OWPPs makes it essential to consider their role in power system restoration,” said Rui Alves, the lead author of the study. “Our research demonstrates that these plants can not only generate power but also contribute significantly to the stability of the grid during emergencies.”
The study reveals that OWPPs equipped with grid-forming (GFM) converter technologies can meet local network demands for both active and reactive power. This capability is critical, especially as traditional synchronous generators are phased out. The researchers conducted extensive analyses, including steady-state assessments and electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations, to evaluate the performance of these offshore facilities under different scenarios. The results were promising: all levels of GFM penetration tested met the stringent requirements set by transmission system operators.
A noteworthy aspect of the research is the identification of optimal GFM penetration levels for various restoration scenarios. For instance, while top-up generation scenarios benefit from a GFM penetration of 40% to 60%, anchor generation scenarios perform best with a lower range of 20% to 40%. This nuanced understanding allows for tailored approaches in deploying OWPPs during emergencies, enhancing their reliability as black start units.
The implications of this research extend beyond technical feasibility. The transition to renewable energy sources, particularly in the context of geopolitical uncertainties and the increasing threat of cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure, underscores the need for resilient power systems. “As we integrate more inverter-based resources into our grids, ensuring they can provide essential services like PSR is crucial,” Alves noted. “This research paves the way for OWPPs to not only replace fossil fuel generators but also to enhance the overall resilience of our energy systems.”
As the energy sector grapples with the challenges of transitioning to low-carbon technologies, the findings from the SIF BLADE project could shape future developments in power system design and operation. The potential for OWPPs to act as reliable resources in PSR could lead to increased investment in offshore wind infrastructure, ultimately driving down costs and accelerating the shift toward sustainable energy solutions.
Published in the journal “Energies,” this study serves as a vital step in understanding how offshore wind can be harnessed not just for generation but also for the stability and reliability of the power grid. As the UK continues to lead in offshore wind development, the insights gained from this research will be instrumental in guiding future policies and investments in the renewable energy landscape.
