In the quest for carbon neutrality, the integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid has become a top priority for energy providers. However, the volatility and uncertainty of these new energy sources present significant challenges. To address these issues, a team of researchers led by ZHANG Ting from Hebei University of Technology, along with MA Yuze and WU Yunna from North China Electric Power University, have developed a groundbreaking approach to optimize shared energy storage systems. Their work, recently published in ‘Dianli jianshe’ (Electric Power Construction), offers a multi-scenario progressive planning optimization model that could revolutionize the way we manage and utilize energy storage.
The study focuses on the use of lithium battery-supercapacitor shared energy storage systems, which can be coordinated with multiple flexible regulation resources to maximize social welfare. “Our model considers the physical characteristics, operation characteristics, and cost-benefit models of typical flexibility-regulation resources,” explains ZHANG. “This allows us to address various scenarios, from smoothing fluctuations to alleviating transmission and distribution circuit congestion and reducing load cutting.”
One of the key advantages of this approach is its ability to enhance the absorption level of renewable energy, which is crucial for reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. By optimizing the use of shared energy storage, the model can effectively reduce system flexibility-adjustment costs, making renewable energy integration more economically viable. “The proposed model not only improves the absorption level of renewable energy but also effectively reduces the system flexibility-adjustment cost,” says MA.
The research highlights six specific scenarios where the model can be applied: smoothing fluctuations, peaking and valley filling, alleviating transmission and distribution circuit congestion and delaying grid upgrading, reducing wind and power rejection, achieving supply-and-demand balance, and reducing load cutting. These scenarios cover a wide range of operational challenges in the energy sector, demonstrating the versatility of the proposed model.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For energy providers, the ability to optimize shared energy storage systems could lead to significant cost savings and improved grid stability. For policymakers, it offers a scientific and effective solution to facilitate the dynamic construction of new power systems, aligning with global efforts towards carbon neutrality. As WU points out, “Our model provides a comprehensive analysis and strategic planning that can guide the development of new power systems, ensuring they are resilient and efficient.”
The study’s findings, published in ‘Dianli jianshe’ (Electric Power Construction), underscore the importance of innovative solutions in the energy sector. As the world continues to transition towards renewable energy, research like this will be instrumental in shaping the future of energy management. By addressing the challenges of energy storage and grid stability, this research paves the way for a more sustainable and efficient energy landscape.
