In the dynamic landscape of renewable energy integration, a groundbreaking study led by Jianhua Li from the East China Branch of State Grid Corporation of China, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (China Electric Power), is set to revolutionize how coastal wind farms support grid stability. The research, focused on the East China Power Grid, delves into the intricate dance of frequency response and inertia support, offering a roadmap for enhancing grid reliability as renewable energy penetration surges.
The study, which utilized PSCAD/EMTDC-based electromagnetic transient equivalent models, reveals that when renewable energy penetration exceeds 30%, the inertia response of wind power becomes crucial. “The inertia response of wind power plays an obvious role in increasing the frequency nadir of the grid,” Li explains. This finding underscores the necessity for wind turbines to provide active inertia support, especially as the capacity of coastal wind farms continues to grow rapidly.
One of the key insights from the research is the optimal setting of the virtual inertia time constant for wind turbines. Li’s team discovered that this constant should be aligned with the physical inertia time constant of the wind turbines. This alignment is pivotal for maintaining grid stability and preventing frequency oscillations, which can lead to blackouts and significant economic losses.
The study also highlights the importance of co-optimizing the pitch system control of wind turbines with the primary frequency regulation (PFR) control of synchronous generators. This collaborative approach ensures that the grid remains stable even as more non-synchronous power sources, like wind and solar, are integrated. “When wind turbines are needed to participate in the primary frequency regulation, the pitch system control of wind turbines and the PFR control of synchronous generators should be co-optimized to avoid frequency oscillation,” Li notes.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy sector. As countries worldwide push for higher renewable energy targets, ensuring grid stability becomes paramount. Li’s findings provide a practical framework for grid operators and wind farm developers to enhance the reliability of their systems. This could lead to more efficient and cost-effective integration of renewable energy, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change impacts.
For commercial entities, this research offers a strategic advantage. Wind farm operators can leverage these insights to design more resilient and efficient systems, potentially reducing operational costs and increasing revenue through better grid support services. Grid operators, on the other hand, can use these findings to plan for future grid expansions and upgrades, ensuring that the infrastructure can handle the increasing penetration of renewable energy.
Li’s work, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’, is a significant step forward in the quest for a stable and sustainable energy future. As the world continues to transition towards renewable energy, the insights from this study will undoubtedly shape future developments in the field, paving the way for a more resilient and efficient energy grid.
