In the rapidly evolving energy landscape, the integration of renewable energy sources has become both a necessity and a challenge. As wind and solar power penetration increases, so does the strain on power system stability, particularly in terms of frequency response and oscillations. A groundbreaking study published in the journal ‘IEEE Access’ (which translates to ‘IEEE Open Access’) offers a promising solution to these issues, with significant implications for the energy sector.
At the heart of this research is a hybrid system combining a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and a Synchronous Condenser (SC). The study, led by Shami Ahmad Assery from the Department of Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering at the University of Birmingham in the UK, explores how this hybrid system can bolster the frequency response of low-inertia power systems.
The crux of the problem lies in the reduced system inertia caused by high renewable energy penetration. “As more renewable energy sources come online, the traditional spinning reserves that provide system inertia are diminishing,” Assery explains. “This leads to concerns over frequency stability and oscillations, which can have severe impacts on grid reliability.”
To tackle this, Assery and his team propose a two-pronged approach: optimizing the size and location of the BESS-SC hybrid system. The sizing strategy, developed using a Genetic Algorithm (GA) optimization technique, aims to minimize the cost of the hybrid system while keeping the Rate of Change of Frequency (RoCoF) within acceptable limits. “We wanted to ensure that the solution is not only technically sound but also economically viable,” Assery notes.
The locating strategy, on the other hand, utilizes the Short Circuit Ratio (SCR) to identify the most suitable location for the hybrid system. This approach is further validated using the Prony method, which employs eigenvalues and damping ratio analysis to assess system stability.
The researchers demonstrated the effectiveness of their proposed strategies on the modified Kundur 4-Machine 2-Area system using MATLAB/Simulink. Through three case studies, they showed notable enhancements in RoCoF and frequency nadir, underscoring the feasibility and potential of their approach.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are profound. As renewable energy penetration continues to rise, the need for innovative solutions to maintain grid stability will only grow. This study offers a promising path forward, one that could shape the future of power system design and operation.
Moreover, the commercial impacts are significant. Energy providers and grid operators stand to benefit from improved frequency response and enhanced system stability, leading to increased reliability and reduced downtime. The economic viability of the proposed hybrid system also makes it an attractive option for investment.
Looking ahead, this research could pave the way for further developments in the field. As Assery puts it, “Our work is just the beginning. There’s so much more to explore, from advanced control strategies to integration with other grid-support technologies.” The future of power systems, it seems, is bright—and stable.
