Challenges in Integrating Renewable Sources into a Utility Grid

Abstract

In India, Electrical Power System is adapted to handle both constant loads and variable loads, also power is generated in two types; one is due to fossil fuels, and another one is due to renewable energy sources. However, renewable energy sources are playing a vital role in the production of clean energy and also useful for the reduction in greenhouse emission. Nevertheless, when there is any additional change in the generation side concerning to input supply, which is due to the uncertainty of nature, can create new challenges for the system operators and utility centers. It is not an easy task for the utility centres and supply operators to integrate variable renewable energy sources with the utility grid. This paper explores an overview of some operational techniques and solutions, which are helpful for high penetration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy. It also explores operation, control management and challenges due to renewable energy when they integrated with the utility grid. By interfacing of renewable energy sources with a utility grid with proper management and control can provide bi-directional communication between suppliers and consumers smartly. The aim of integrating large scale renewable sources from transmission and distribution network into an existing system is to reduce the power quality issues, demand response, forecasting, peak demand, and improve network security, fast scheduling and dispatch, aiming towards smart grid technology for electrical power systems.