This final project report documents the outcomes of the three parallel investigations:
- Weak Grids Classification and Test-bed Development,
- Grid-Strengthening-based Solutions: SynCons and GFMIs, and
- Internal Control of Wind and Solar Farms.
Report extract
Australia’s power system is undergoing a significant transformation, with anticipated thermal generation retirements and a rise in renewable Inverter-Based Resource (IBR)s. Many regions in the National Electricity Market (NEM) are experiencing system strength-related problems, which are likely to worsen in the coming years. The rapid growth of IBRs also has tangible commercial impacts on operating generators, as some areas with high IBRs share see connection delays or curtailment.
This project aimed to help address these challenges to assist both network owners and operators in ensuring customers get the maximum value from the renewable solar and wind farms located in weak parts of the grid, and increase the reliability and security of the grid in such areas.
The outcomes of this project include increased penetration of solar/wind farms, maximized generation capacity of existing wind/solar farms located in weak parts of the grid, and increased reliability, security, and stability of the grid as the renewable energy penetration grows. Overall, this project has contributed significantly to the renewable energy industry by providing solutions to the stability issues faced by renewable energy farms in weak grids. The research activities have led to a number of journal and conference publications, and the outcomes of this project contribute to the Advancing Renewables Program’s outcomes.
