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Grid integration

Introduction

Having an interconnection between the renewable energy installations and the nearest grid point is the first and foremost requirement to maximize the power usage from renewable energy sources. More often renewable energy installations may be small in size and dispersed. Therefore, evaluation of power generation from renewable energy units presents technical and commercial challenges. In this context, following questions assume importance: 1. Who should bear the cost of evacuation facility up to the nearest receiving sub-station and all other related expenditure at the site (renewable energy facility’s switchyard)? 2. How to address technical issues related to grid interconnection?

Rationale

  • Harness the renewable energy potential in the country to the maximum extent possible.

Basic elements of design

Generally, the cost of interconnection between the facility and nearest sub-station is borne by the developers. However, the approach varies from state to state. Though, voltage of interconnection depends on the quantum of power to be injected, however, some states have specified the minimum interconnection voltage level for renewable energy. Strengthening the network within the state is the responsibility of distribution licensees and state transmission utility.

Potential challenges

Providing the grid extension up to the renewablee energy facilities to off-take renewable energy electricity may put an additional financial burden on the licensee/supplier of that area. Licensee(s) in the present context and the supplier(s) in future, if wires business is segregated from the distribution, may not always be willing to make investments for grid extension at their own cost. Development of Smart Grid for evacuation and transmission of renewable power. Assessment of grid expansion or up-gradation required for RE due to in-firm nature and special distribution of renewable energy sources.

India experience

Revised Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC) announced in April 2010 contains enabling provisions for market integration of wind and solar power. In low load conditions and high wind power generation conditions, often, renewable energy producers are asked to shut down or reduce generation, thereby, limiting the use of renewable energy potential to the maximum extent possible.