CONSIDERATIONS FOR CONNECTING RENEWABLE GENERATION INTO BULK SUPPLY NETWORKS

摘要

The widespread concern about the environment is leading to a dramatic increase in renewable generation projects being proposed and developed. Such generation has its own particular set of characteristics and these differ in important respects from those of 'conventional' generation. For the greatest benefit to be obtained from these generators, they need to use the established distribution and grid network to distribute their output. This paper discusses the problems that may be encountered by the developers of renewable energy projects seeking access to the grid connected networks. It also introduces the concerns for network operators when dealing with projects to connect such generators to utility networks. It is vital that each party understands the others' problems. In addition to the technical considerations, both the potential renewable generator and the power utility have to consider regulatory, the local and global environmental, social, political and financial factors. Power networks will need to develop if the exploitation of renewable energy is to proceed in line with political expectations. The argument for maintaining the stringent requirements of utility grids which apply to conventional generation, and forcing renewable to develop to meet such requirements at some time in the future, is countered by the need to allow renewable generation onto utility grids in its present form in order to reduce greenhouse gas and pollution levels. In the situation where generators and grid owners are independent of each other, the regulator, the power companies and the developers of renewable energy sources need to take account of national policy in decisions on how to proceed. In many cases, customers are also having an impact on the debate by purchasing renewable energy at a premium price. In general, there must be an effort to move towards renewable generation, with this energy handled by utility-owned networks.