Fuel cell transmission integrated grid energy resources to support generation-constrained power systems

Laura Novoa, Russ Neal, Scott Samuelsen and Jack Brouwer

Applied Energy, 2020, vol. 276, issue C, No S0306261920309971

Abstract: This paper estimates operational benefits and opportunities for utility-scale, distributed generation resources, called Transmission Integrated Grid Energy Resource (TIGER) stations herein, to support the electric power grid. Efficient, near-zero-emissions, high-temperature Fuel Cells fed by natural gas, operate as the generation source. For analysis, we use the real-world case of the transmission system in Southern California associated with the closure of the San Onofre nuclear power plant, which triggered the need for supplemental generation support and grid reliability. In this context, TIGER stations emerge as an opportunity to enhance grid characteristics. Steady-state power flow simulations were carried out for different TIGER station deployments. Results show that TIGER stations reduce line losses and provide local voltage support. The installation of only three TIGER stations operating at 70 MW/70 MVAR, or 100 MVAR each, was able to maintain voltage throughout at 0.98 p.u. or above when it otherwise had dropped to near 0.92 p.u. when the 2.0 GW nuclear plant went offline. The best TIGER placement was proven to always be at the weakest point in the system (at the end of the circuit, at the lowest voltage bus) as opposed to being distributed across nearby buses.

Keywords: TIGER; Fuel cell; Transmission integrated grid energy; Voltage profile; Line losses; Voltage stability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2020.115485

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