Potential solutions to the challenges of low inertia power systems with a case study concerning synchronous condensers

Abstract

This paper will review the recent and on-going changes to the power system in Great Britain (GB). One of the main challenges resulting from these changes in generation mix is the assurance of frequency stability in a low inertia system, and the provision of adequate dynamic responses to frequency changes, while meeting the requirements of the energy trilemma. Specifically, the increase in penetration of non-synchronous generation increases the risk of undesired operation of protection devices and contributes to a shortage of dynamic immediate response to frequency changes. A range of potential solutions will be briefly reviewed in this paper including, demand side response (DSR), energy storage, synthetic inertia, and synchronous condensers. A case study concerned with evaluating the impact that synchronous compensation may have in a low inertia power system will be described in the paper. The paper will conclude with an outline of the avenues for further study towards addressing the challenge of frequency stability and system inertia in a future power system.