What changes do we expect from the grid operations? How can the grid be adjusted to support the transition to a clean energy system? In our "Making Tomorrow More Power" series recently, energy reporters Sonja van Renssen, Karel Beckman and DNV GL Experts had a conversation, trying to get answers. This program is divided into six series, which will explore the role of transmission and distribution operators in the energy transition, how to make the network smarter, the impact of electrification on network operations, the impact of the offshore wind energy revolution on the grid, and the integration of renewable energy Degree of maturity.

Today, let’s find out what are the expectations of grid operators for future energy prospects?

The "Energy Transition Outlook 2019" report released by DNV GL outlines the "great transformation" that is taking place in the energy industry and discusses many options for grid operators to manage the transformation. The integration of variable renewable energy will require large-scale network expansion investments. The operational complexity of the grid system will include the application of new technologies, such as high voltage direct current (HVDC), in the so-called AC/DC hybrid grid. In addition, the interconnectivity between regions may change the form of power grid operation in many countries so far. The following are the main trends that will change the grid pattern in the next few years.

1 Variable renewable energy will bring challenges to transmission system operators, but digitization makes it possible for the system to operate reliably

More use of market flexibility and ancillary services to support system operations. For example, the operation of balancing the market has significantly increased market liquidity and cost reduction. The capacity factor will play an increasing role in maintaining reliability. As the variable of power generation increases, some power plants are only needed when extreme conditions occur in the power system. Decision-making tools will also become increasingly automated. We expect to use more flexibility platforms to obtain the flexibility of decentralized management, automatic optimization of load flow control assets, active management close to thermal limits, and dynamic weather-related line ratings.

2 Interconnection and super grids will play a key role in managing supply and demand

With the increasing share of renewable energy in the interconnected power market, it is necessary to complete and continue to develop existing and new interconnected projects to manage the power supply and demand issues in the power supply area. Northeast Asia Super Grid, Southern Europe Interconnection, Nordic New Lufthansa Power Bridge, German HVDC Corridor and other projects will form a coverage grid based on the existing high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) grid topology, which will enable seamless power trading and further Market integration becomes possible, thereby helping to integrate renewable energy on the basis of competition principles. They will also have an impact on geopolitics, as dependence on fossil fuels (usually imported) will decrease and the value of renewable resources will increase.

3 Digitalization and smart technology will bring about the automation of network operations

We will see more automation in network operations, as well as full automation of energy billing and accounting processes. The IT platform will authorize new distributed energy and flexibility suppliers to enter and open the market. Sensors and data analysis will mature, enabling smart asset management and better utilization of major system elements. This will include new IoT sensors, improved monitoring of life consumption indicators, allowing for decentralized power generation structures, as well as more complex SCADA systems and related grid operation tools.

4 A more decentralized system operation will drive the need for higher-level rules to define the roles and interfaces between participants

In Europe, the TSOs Association ENTSO-E is working closely with the DSOs Association EDSO. The original design purpose of the power distribution network is to distribute electric energy from the transmission system to consumers from top to bottom. Today, many power distribution systems are already operating under "reverse" power flow. With the penetration of distributed power from renewable energy sources, and the resulting increase in regional supply and demand imbalances, this trend will continue. As the operation of the system becomes more complex, digitalization will play a key role through better monitoring and have a major impact.

5 As the amount of renewable energy grows, energy storage technology will play an important role in supply and demand management

We may see that there are more and more trade-offs between future power system technology solutions, such as a large number of power distribution network reinforcement, flexible options for smart charging of electric vehicles, energy storage, demand response, and departmental cooperation. The European 10-year network development plan predicts that by 2040, electric vehicle battery storage and large-scale batteries will account for 10% of the system load. Energy storage plays a dual role in both the electrification of transportation and the need for static batteries to support weaker grid infrastructure.

6 By 2025, as renewable energy begins to provide more than a quarter of our electricity demand, new business models will emerge

The core of these models will be a cheaper power generation market based on most renewable energy generation. But for grid operators, we need to maintain a reliable grid infrastructure in both power transmission and distribution. A flexible market enables local ancillary services, electric vehicles and related demand, and energy-saving measures. Digitization will bring new response solutions based on digital energy demand for industry, commerce and households.

7 Microgrid will play a greater role in the future

Isolated tiny power grids, such as islands or remote villages, are usually due to low population density or economic inactivity that makes traditional grid extensions unaffordable. Isolated tiny power grids, such as those used in mines, offshore oil facilities, remote telecommunications, scientific facilities, or military purposes, are driven by fuel supply economics. Commercial, industrial or residential microgrids that are connected to a larger grid will be established, but due to reliability considerations, it is planned to disconnect these microgrids when necessary. Commercial, industrial, or residential microgrids that were never intended to be autonomous will be established to manage their energy-saving electricity, energy storage, and the need to minimize costs or deal with grid connection restrictions.

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