From challenges to solutions: Review and analysis of grid-supportive technologies in sustainable power systems

Zarka Mirza and Himanshu Jain

Applied Energy, 2026, vol. 403, issue PB, No S0306261925018410

Abstract: The increasing integration of inverter-based renewable energy sources, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power plants, has become central to achieving global decarbonization and sustainable development goals. However, their large-scale deployment fundamentally alters grid dynamics, creating new challenges in maintaining voltage stability, inertial response, frequency regulation, reactive power support, power quality, and black start capability. While numerous studies have addressed these issues, existing reviews remain fragmented, often focusing on individual challenges, specific technologies, or isolated regulatory mechanisms. This paper conducts a scoping review to identify gaps and a semi-systematic review to provide a comprehensive synthesis of inverter-dominated power systems across three interrelated dimensions: (i) Challenges, referring to the six key grid-supportive services affected by high renewable penetration; (ii) Solutions, representing five categories of grid-supportive technologies, including generation, energy storage, transmission, stabilization and control, and demand-side flexibility; and (iii) Enablers, referring to international standards, grid codes, and ancillary service markets that define, mandate, and monetize grid-supportive capabilities. The analysis adopts a global perspective encompassing both developed and developing countries (with inverter-dominated power systems), emphasizing real-world case studies, system-level implementations, and regulatory developments rather than component-level control designs. Findings reveal that no single technology can ensure grid stability under high renewable penetration; instead, hybrid portfolios combining conventional assets, power-electronic solutions, and flexible demand-side resources are required. Their successful deployment depends on updated standards, harmonized grid codes, and well-structured ancillary markets that incentivize participation. Future research should focus on scalable, long-duration energy storage; integration and aggregation of demand-side resources; global harmonization of standards and codes; and expansion of market frameworks enabling diverse technologies to deliver essential grid-supportive services.

Keywords: Grid-supportive technologies; Renewable energy integration; Demand flexibility; Inverter-based resources; Grid codes; Ancillary services (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.127111

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