ISGAN discussion paper on storage and balancing

Storage and balancing as key elements for future network planning and electricity markets design

ISGAN recently published a report about storage and balancing. The aim of the report is to analyze the flexibility contribution that identified resources could provide as a contribution towards the achievement of efficient and cost-effective dispatching of the electric system, in presence of an ever increasing penetration of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) which are characterized by a variable generation pattern. Higher flexibility in network dispatching can be achieved either by increasing the deployment of bulk storage in the transmission network, or by widening the set of resources available as a base for energy balancing. The latter strategy could potentially be actuated by allowing reserve procurement across transmission operator jurisdictions. In a European context this strategy would be referred to as trans-national balancing; and could also be relevant to procurement across different Regions and Balancing Authorities in North America. A further positive could be achieved through participation in the balancing mechanism from generators and loads located in distribution networks. Beyond supporting dispatching efficiency, these flexibility elements make it possible to deploy a sustainable expansion strategy of the trans-national transmission corridors, taking into account the current difficulties faced in achieving public consensus for the building of new overhead lines. This report illustrates the potential of these strategies by referencing the results achieved in a number of important and ongoing European research projects.

You can download the report here.

About the International Smart Grid Action Network (ISGAN)

Launched in 2010 at the first Clean Energy Ministerial, the International Smart Grid Action Network (ISGAN) brings together governments and their stakeholders to advance smart grids around the world through dynamic knowledge sharing, peer exchange, tool development, and project coordination among a global network of experts. ISGAN is formally organized through the Implementing Agreement for a Co-operative Programme on Smart Grids (ISGAN) under a framework of the International Energy Agency. More information on ISGAN and its Award of Excellence can be found at www.iea-isgan.org.