Bidding on renewables for the global electricity network

Solutions on integrating large-scale renewable energies into the power grid are under study

The trouble with such renewable energies is that they are produced far away from where they are needed. Therefore, capturing such energy and sharing it on a large scale can be problematic. Vicente González López, head of the R&D at the Spanish Transmission System Operator Red Eléctrica de España (REE), based in Madrid, Spain, talks about the major challenges in developing novel network technologies to increase the pan-European capacity for transporting electricity from renewable sources. Ultimately, the idea is to enhance the flexibility of the electricity system. This goal fits in with the aim of the European research project BESTPATHS, started in 2014, that González López coordinates.

Is it possible to integrate large-scale renewable energies to create a low carbon economy?

First of all, we should no longer talk about renewable energies, as if it was a big burden for the people in the sector. The difficulty for the operation of the system is that we are not able to manage the generation capacity as we have done so, until now, with conventional power plans. The main characteristic of the electrical system is that we have to maintain a balance between the generated and the consumed electricity. In summary, the answer to this question is YES, but just in case all the relevant actors assume this challenge as their own one.

What technological advances have recently been introduced?

We are working not only towards delivering the energy generated in offshore parks to the consumption areas. We want to evolve the so-called Voltage Source Converter (VSC). This is a technology that allows to transfer the energy and to maintain the security in the system. Ultimately, our aim is to ensure interoperability among solution coming from different manufactures.

What is the outcome for the environment?

The consequences for the environment are positive. That is the main advantage for the consumer. Indeed, the grid operators want to maximise the use of existing grid facilities. This is one of the key issues to deliver the grid of the future at an affordable cost. For that reason, we put much emphasis on upgrading the present networks. We also focus on minimising the impact on the environment coming from new grid facilities which are required to manage the power system under CO2-free conditions. Moreover, the major impact comes from the substitution of power generation based on oil derivatives or fossil fuels by renewables has a direct reduction on greenhouse gas emissions.

Does integration of renewables make the energy supply more secure?

For sure, renewable energies must contribute more to the security and the quality of supply, in accordance with their paramount role within the complete chain of supply. The present levels of security of supply in Europe are better than in any other region all around the world. However, this substitution of conventional power plants by renewables requires new grid services to maintain present levels of security of supply. We are currently studying new functionalities in our research project.

Is this approach going to benefit the consumer?

The equation has two variables, environmental sustainability and cost. The question is what does European society want? If sustainability is the priority, our research will help to maximise sustainability at the best possible costs for the industry, investors, suppliers and – ultimately - consumers.

More information:
Bestpaths Project Coordinator:
Mr Vicente González López
RED ELÉCTRICA DE ESPAÑA (REE)
Email: vgonzalez@ree.es

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