Operational Impact of High Solar Penetrations in the West

Operational Impact of High Solar Penetrations in the West

N. Miller, K. Clark, G. Jordan, Z. Gao, GE; D. Lew, NREL

The western U.S. has tremendous solar potential. However, the variability of power generation from solar plants presents an operational challenge for grid system operators.  Experience in power grids with significant penetration of variable renewable generation (both solar and wind power) has shown that the operating flexibility of the balance of the generation portfolio is a key element in secure and economic operation.

This paper presents an overview of the variable characteristics of solar power, as well as the accompanying grid performance and operational economics for a system with significant solar generation. Solar penetrations of up to 25% are examined in specific subregions with penetrations of up to 18% across the western half of the U.S. Both PV and concentrating solar power with thermal energy storage are considered.

The paper will show results of economic operational simulations of a very high solar generation future for the western U.S.  The evaluated system is subject to significant dynamic operating constraints; and the analytical methods used account for the critical interrelationships between system security, solar variability, and imperfect solar forecasts.