Optimal Grid Flexibility Assessment for Integration of Variable Renewable-Based Electricity Generation

Hameedullah Zaheb (), Mikaeel Ahmadi (), Nisar Ahmad Rahmany, Mir Sayed Shah Danish, Habibullah Fedayi and Atsushi Yona
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Hameedullah Zaheb: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
Mikaeel Ahmadi: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
Nisar Ahmad Rahmany: Department of Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kabul University, Kabul 1006, Afghanistan
Mir Sayed Shah Danish: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
Habibullah Fedayi: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
Atsushi Yona: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 20, 1-24

Abstract: This study delves into power system flexibility, with a keen focus on the integration of variable renewable electricity generation into power grids. Two scenarios were analyzed. The base scenario revealed an aging grid, insufficient generation capacity, frequent outages, and little renewable energy generation (1.9%), along with a significant (71.23%) loss of load. In contrast, the investment scenario presented solutions including raising VRE capacity to 44%, adding 1000 MW capacity transmission lines, installing 200 MW capacity grid-scale battery storage, and technological enhancements. These interventions effectively eliminated loss of load, reinforcing energy resilience. Investments in CCGPP and grid-scale batteries proved instrumental in mitigating the variability of renewable energy. Improved transmission promised efficient power exchange and regional collaboration. The elimination of annualized energy spills and the removal of ramping constraints marked significant strides in enhancing power system flexibility. This research underscores the pivotal role of grid flexibility in accommodating VRE sources. By implementing the proposed optimal solutions, Afghanistan can lead the way toward a cleaner, more resilient, and more interconnected energy future. These findings offer a replicable framework for addressing similar challenges in integrating renewable energy sources globally and supporting the transition to sustainable and reliable energy.

Keywords: grid flexibility; grid modernization; renewable energy integration; energy transition; flexibility options; energy storage; power system; variable renewable energy; optimization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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