Integrating Large-Scale Variable Renewable Energy Resources on the Transmission Grid: A Case Study of the Nigerian Transmission System
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63746/njtd.v22i5.3406Keywords:
energy transition, renewable energy integration, solar, variable renewable energy, windAbstract
A more sustainable energy mix is the purpose of the global energy transition, which aims to minimize the energy sector's dependence on fossil fuels. To provide sustainable and reliable energy generation and to evaluate grid stability, it is critical to estimate the level of renewable energy penetration in power grids. In this work, an overview of solar and wind energy potential in Nigeria was assessed. The Nigerian transmission power system was simulated using DIgSILENT PowerFactory software. There were 48 buses in the modelled 330 kV network, which was simulated under normal operating conditions for a simulation time of 15 seconds. The simulation considered four scenarios: the base case, 10%, 20%, and 30% wind and solar penetration. The effect of increasing the variable renewable energy sources was observed in the voltage profile as well as the frequency of the grid. Frequency was lowest in the scenario with 30% variable renewable integration, which was not within the normal operating range, this was due to higher portion of variable renewable energy in the network. The voltage profile of 10% and 20% renewable penetration levels showed some buses that exceeded the set limits which would cause voltage instability in the system. Results highlight the importance of ensuring voltage and frequency stability across the system, especially as the renewable energy penetration increases. Also, results suggest the need for additional control strategies, to guarantee stability in the power system.
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