Next-gen grid technologies can solve utility challenges – US DOE

Three transformative technologies can support the transformation to a future grid with more utility-scale and consumer distributed energy resources.

These are the shift from static line ratings to dynamic line ratings to allow for a faster response time, from static networks to dynamic topology optimisation to enable variability and agility and from passive equipment to advanced power electronics that can facilitate and manage the future grid.

In a new report, the US Department of Energy (DOE) states that the three sets of technologies can work concurrently to achieve the “future grid paradigm”, capable of integrating more solar and wind generation and millions of electric vehicles and distributed energy resources.

However, each has barriers to widespread adoption including regulation, technology and others.

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The report addresses each of the technologies, focussing on the R&D requirements to overcome the challenges and barriers.

For example, dynamic line rating and topology optimisation face barriers such as data inaccuracies, adverse impact on infrastructure, market readiness and the economics of implementation.

Key R&D areas to solve these problems include enhancing models and data, evaluating the system impacts of implementation and developing the workforce for the deployment and use of these technologies.

For power electronics technologies, including power flow controllers and solid state power substations, R&D areas include the three main applications of power electronics, i.e. components including controllers, semiconductor devices, breakers, etc., systems including FACTS, protection equipment, etc. and grid integration with whole grid impact evaluation.

Emphasising all three will bring costs down and solve key implementation issues that will allow the future grid to benefit from the reliability, resilience and flexibility benefits that power electronics systems promise, the report states.

The report concludes that prioritising R&D in these technologies is critical for a successful future grid.

“Solving the challenges and barriers associated with these technologies will result in a modernised electric grid that is reliable, resilient, secure, affordable, flexible and sustainable.

“Achieving renewable energy milestones and decarbonisation goals, reaching resiliency goals, and meeting dynamic customer needs will not be possible without the R&D advancements needed to support them.”