Guidelines to better integrate distributed renewable energy sources in European power grids
The EU-funded IGREENGRID (Integrating renewables in the European electricity grid) project focused on results gained from major European distributed system operators (DSOs) in six demonstration projects. These projects concerned the integration of distributed renewable energy sources (DRESs) in low- and medium-voltage grids. To implement a massive integration of DRESs in the distribution network, project partners identified the regulatory, technical and economic barriers that represent current obstacles to this integration. Each DSO identified the hurdles that they will face while implementing smart solutions proposed by their six demonstrators. They designed key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess present and future projects concerning DRES integration, and to quantify the benefits derived from the implementation of each specific smart grid solution. The IGREENGRID team selected the most promising solutions for facing the identified challenges and barriers based on the calculation of KPIs. It then analysed the most promising solutions at EU level through simulations on representative networks provided by each DSO. Researchers delivered a set of guidelines targeting policymakers to facilitate DRES integration. The aim is to overcome barriers to integration and implement the most promising solutions. The guidelines examine solutions proposed by the most relevant research projects, providing know-how and main lessons learned. They make recommendations about rules and criteria to properly manage distribution systems, technical requirements for DRESs, requirements for manufacturers of equipment and technology providers, and methodologies and tools to develop accurate technical and economic assessments. IGREENGRID shared knowledge and promoted best practices in identifying potential solutions for the effective integration of DRESs. This will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere, thereby improving the quality of life of EU citizens.
Keywords
Distributed renewable energy sources, IGREENGRID, electricity grid, distributed system operators
