Renewable Energy Systems

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The objective of this programme is to spread knowledge on renewable energy technologies and to facilitate the development of small and medium size initiatives in partnership with other actors.

Home » groups » Renewable Energy Systems

From 20 to 50 percent of Wind Energy in the Danish power system

Submitted by Fernando Nuno on Tue, 2008-06-10 11:02.

By Peter Børre Eriksen

Denmark is facing rapid development in distributed generation. Currently, wind plus local CHP account for more than 50% of generation. On the western side of the system, hourly wind generation at some points of the year exceeds the domestic demand.

The scenario for the close future is an increase of wind energy share up to 50%. This paper explores the current and future tools to accommodate such great renewable and decentralised generation. To give an example, local CHP has learnt to manage its electricity generation, responding to market signals and contributing to system stability. Cross-border trading is also an essential tool. Renewables growth will definitely need reinforced interconnections and flexible markets.


What's it going to take to run fully on wind power?

Submitted by Hans De Keulenaer on Wed, 2008-06-11 10:53.

A fascinating presentation from a system operator running already a large share on wind power, and considering the next step towards 50%. If 50% of Denmark's electricity is provided by wind, there are going to be many moments when the system runs fully on wind, and in periods of strong wind and low demand, it is even conceivable that there is too much wind for the energy needed.

So as a case study for the future, it's interesting to see what solutions Denmark foresees for its wind future:

  • Strong interconnections with neighbouring countries, to import power deficits, and export surplus
  • Activate CHP capacity from system operation. However, the presentation does not mention what impact this has on CHP efficiency.
  • Promotion of price responsive demand, with introduction of new technologies, such as heat pumps and electric boilers, in combination with smart grids to make these energy users participate to balacing.
  • Electricity and heat storage

All these technologies come at a cost, and a careful selection of the appropriate mix will define the cost and relability of the future power system.

It's also interesting to observe that a renewable energy systems is facilitated by increased uses of electricity for transport and heat.

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