In the rapidly evolving energy landscape, the integration of large-scale wind and solar power has introduced significant fluctuations in net load, posing new challenges for power system planning. A groundbreaking study led by Dawei Ren from the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization in Beijing, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (China Electric Power), offers a novel approach to address these challenges through a coordinated planning method for wide-area power systems.
The research focuses on developing a quantifiable and efficient optimization planning model that can handle the complexities of multiple flexible resources. This model is built on a time-series operational simulation, incorporating output constraints on various flexible resources. Ren and his team have created a simplified power system unit-commitment model to optimize the capacity of renewable energy supply, power grid interconnection, and energy storage.
“Our model not only optimizes the capacity of new power generation, power grid interconnection, and energy storage but also provides a comprehensive analysis of the relationships between these components,” Ren explains. “This is crucial for understanding how to balance the increasing variability of renewable energy sources with the stability requirements of the power grid.”
The study delves into key issues such as the optimal installed capacity of renewable energy, the necessary power-grid interconnection capacity, and the role of energy storage. It also explores the intricate relationships between renewable energy capacity and energy storage, as well as the interplay between power grid interconnection and energy storage. This holistic approach is essential for designing a resilient and efficient power system.
Ren’s research highlights the importance of coordinated planning in the energy sector. “By optimizing the generation, transmission, and storage of energy in a coordinated manner, we can mitigate the risks associated with the variability of renewable energy sources,” Ren notes. “This approach ensures that the power system remains stable and reliable, even as the proportion of renewable energy increases.”
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the world transitions towards a higher proportion of renewable energy, the ability to plan and optimize power systems efficiently will be critical. This study provides a technical reference for future planning, helping energy providers and policymakers make informed decisions. By addressing the complexities of multiple flexible resources and their interactions, this research paves the way for a more stable and sustainable energy future.
The findings from this study, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (China Electric Power), offer a roadmap for the energy sector to navigate the challenges of integrating large-scale renewable energy sources. As the world continues to invest in wind and solar power, the insights from Ren’s research will be invaluable in shaping the future of power system planning and optimization.