Energy Infrastructure Solutions

#HeideHub, #NordWestHub and #NordHub are the names of unique electricity hubs being created in our grid that will interconnect #HVDC systems in the future. They will strengthen the German electricity #grid and enable an even more efficient integration of #renewableenergy. Securing the sites is an important milestone for TenneT Germany on the road to the start of construction in 2026! The #NorthSea offers enormous potential for #windenergy generation. We reliably bring this electricity to the consumption centers in southern and western Germany. To do this, we rely on modern direct current (DC) technology, which is ideally suited for low-loss transmission over long distances. The catch so far: DC lines can only be implemented as point-to-point connections. #Multiterminal hubs are fundamentally changing this. They create the conditions for transporting large amounts of electricity flexibly and in line with demand over long distances. By linking DC lines, they enable a new grid level – the DC overlay grid. A DC integrated grid that complements and relieves the existing AC grid. In a future Europe-wide DC overlay grid, large amounts of electricity from renewable sources can be traded across borders and efficiently transported from the point of generation to where it is needed. A central building block for the energy supply of the future – independent, resilient, affordable and climate-neutral.   #LightingTheWayAheadTogether 50Hertz Transmission GmbH, Amprion GmbH

A Comprehensive HVDC Power Electronics System in Simulink: A Milestone in Innovation This project presents an advanced High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) system modeled in Simulink, integrating diverse power electronics components and renewable energy sources into a unified setup. This unique system is a pioneering effort in simulation and modeling, designed to highlight cutting-edge energy transmission and integration techniques. Below is a detailed breakdown of the system and its components. 1. HVDC System Overview Voltage and Distance: The system operates at 230 kV DC and spans a transmission distance of 100 km, enabling high-efficiency long-distance power transfer. Power Transmission: It is designed to transfer a total of 50 MW of power between two Voltage Source Converter (VSC) stations. Grid Integration: The system is connected to an AC grid operating at 220 kV, 50 Hz, with a transformer rated at 220/110 kV to match the transmission voltage. 2. Photovoltaic (PV) Arrays Capacity: The system integrates two 1 MW PV arrays, contributing clean solar energy to the grid. Control Strategy: Each PV array is equipped with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controllers to optimize energy harvesting under varying solar irradiance conditions. 3. Wind Energy Integration Wind Turbine: A wind turbine rated at 10 kW is included to supplement the system’s renewable energy input. Boost Converter with MPPT: A boost converter is employed alongside MPPT algorithms to ensure maximum power extraction from the wind turbine under fluctuating wind speeds. 4. Energy Storage System Z-Source Inverter: The system features a Z-source inverter integrated with storage elements, providing robust and reliable energy storage and transfer. Boost Inverter: A boost inverter is included to enhance the storage system’s performance and support the grid during peak demand or renewable energy fluctuations. 5. Key Features and Advantages Modularity: Each component is modularly designed, enabling easy expansion and testing of additional renewable sources or advanced control strategies. Efficiency: The combination of HVDC, advanced inverters, and MPPT controllers maximizes overall system efficiency. Innovation: This is the first published system of its kind to integrate such diverse components, making it a benchmark in power electronics simulation. Conclusion This comprehensive HVDC power electronics system in Simulink serves as a cutting-edge example of modern energy systems. Its ability to integrate solar, wind, and storage solutions into a unified, high-efficiency setup positions it as a vital step toward sustainable and reliable energy solutions. 💡 If you are interested in contributing to scientific publications, sharing insights, or exploring practical applications of this system, feel free to reach out directly. Let’s work together to advance the field and achieve impactful results.

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗚𝗿𝗶𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 Both 𝗘𝗠𝗧 & 𝗥𝗠𝗦 RMS-based tools (PSS®E, PowerFactory RMS) have been the backbone of grid studies for decades. Model for the country / continent level, they are easy and flexible. But with increasing penetration of inverter-based resources (IBRs) like solar and wind, RMS alone is no longer sufficient. So why do we still need EMT studies? • RMS models work with phasors and positive-sequence assumptions. They cannot capture fast electromagnetic transients occurring in the sub-cycle to few-millisecond range, which is exactly where inverter controls operate. • PLL dynamics, current limiters, DC-link behavior, PWM effects, and fast protection logics are invisible in RMS. EMT tools (like PSCAD) model these controls explicitly. • In weak grids, small disturbances can trigger control interactions, oscillations, or loss of synchronism in IBRs. These phenomena are often missed in RMS but clearly observed in EMT simulations. • RMS Model is more of generic model. Change in parameters in simulation and in devices (Solar Inverter, WTG, BESS, SVG etc) not similar. However EMT model parameters in Simulation and devices are more close match RMS may show “stable recovery,” while EMT reveals: • delayed current injection • control blocking • unstable PLL behavior • non-compliant active power recovery ramps • Sub-synchronous interactions, control-protection conflicts, fast voltage collapse, and converter-driven oscillations require EMT accuracy. The right approach RMS studies answer system-level questions EMT studies answer device-level and fast-dynamic questions They are complementary, not competing tools. As grid codes evolve, utilities increasingly mandate EMT validation for: • Large solar & wind plants • BESS projects • Weak grid connections • Detailed PPC and inverter compliance If RMS tells you whether the system survives, EMT tells you how it actually behaves. want to learn with a real time project click the link in comment #powersystems #powerprojects #pscad #transmission

I was honored to join Axios energy reporter Ben Geman at the Atlantic Council in Washington, DC, for a fireside chat to discuss what it will take to power an economy that’s more electrified, resilient and competitive. The reality is stark: demand for electricity is projected to grow far faster than overall energy use. This is no threat to prosperity; it’s an opportunity - if we act with realism and speed. I have three takeaways from our discussion, and they are based on one simple insight: a successful energy transition needs energy security. We need to put the technologies and infrastructure in place to ensure we have the right energy, at the right time, at the right price. We can achieve this if we: 1. Squeeze more from every kilowatt: Energy efficiency and grid modernization are just as important as energy supply. We can quickly improve energy efficiency in industries and buildings by using high-efficiency motors with variable-speed drives. If widely adopted, this could reduce electricity demand by about 10% - the same as the output from around 100 coal plants or 35 nuclear plants. These savings could meet the growing energy needs of data centers for several years. 2. Modernize and digitalize the grid: We are still trying to run a 21st century economy on 20th century infrastructure. By 2040, the world needs 80 million kilometers (almost 50 million miles) of grid upgrades, plus storage and digital control, to integrate variable renewables, balance peaks, and improve resilience. Permitting is now a critical bottleneck. This is where targeted policy – with smarter approvals, clear standards, and investment in distribution networks – can unlock real capacity quickly. 3. Make AI part of the solution: There are a lot of headlines that Artificial Intelligence is driving up demand for energy. However, AI-enabled energy management – with digital substations and edge control – can also optimize usage, reduce losses and prevent outages. We have to see AI as a crucial tool to manage grids, to forecast, shift and reduce demand. AI can help us align demand growth with grid reliability. None of this scales without people. Resilient energy systems need a skilled workforce, from electricians to data scientists. Upskilling, retraining, and apprenticeships have to be made a priority by both the public and the private sector. The path forward is clear: electrify everything you can; deploy efficiency first; digitalize the grid; and use AI to manage what we add (and have). For regions and countries that do this, energy security will be a competitive advantage creating the foundations for sustainable growth. Listen to the full discussion here: https://lnkd.in/emMu-4zr

System integration: Working towards a renewable energy supply.   The energy transition isn’t just about generating more electricity from renewables — it’s about using it smartly as the supply and demand of electricity has a delicate balance. When you switch on a device, the power production has to be increased somewhere. In the past, conventional power plants were ramped up and down to match the electricity demand during the day. Unfortunately, we cannot control the wind and sunshine. Therefore, the balance of supply and demand becomes a challenge with moments of surplus and shortage, while more renewable capacity is being added to the energy system. However, it is a challenge we can overcome.   System integration is the answer — and RWE is pioneering this approach with our OranjeWind project, currently under construction with TotalEnergies. By linking technologies, we create opportunities for new sectors to use energy from offshore wind, increasing flexibility and reducing curtailment.    A few system integration concepts we’re bringing into reality at OranjeWind: ▪️Energy storage: Subsea pumped hydro and battery storage, plus an onshore inertia battery, will help stabilise the grid and compensate for peaks and troughs in electricity generation. ▪️Power-to-X: TotalEnergies is partnering with Air Liquide to produce 45,000 tons of green hydrogen per year, using electricity from OranjeWind to power the electrolysers. ▪️Sector coupling: Onshore, we are investing in EV charging, electrolysers, and electric boilers — making it possible for the industrial and transport sectors to use clean power in their operations.   These kinds of measures not only maximise the use of renewable energy: they also reduce dependence on fossil energy sources and strengthen the security of our energy supply. But single projects aren’t enough. To create sufficient investment and supportive regulations for system integration infrastructure, we need cooperation — between energy companies, industry, and governments. Making the right choices now will set us up for a more stable, sustainable, and resilient energy system tomorrow.

🌍 Harnessing the Power of Renewables: New Guidelines for Wind & Solar Integration Studies 🌞 The International Energy Agency's (IEA) Technology Collaboration Programmes for Wind Energy Systems (IEA Wind) and Photovoltaic Power Systems (IEA PVPS) have released the third edition of the “Recommended Practices for Wind/PV Integration Studies” – a must-read for anyone involved in renewable energy and power systems design! This updated guide builds on 15+ years of expertise and international collaboration, providing actionable methodologies and best practices for conducting integration studies in systems dominated by wind and solar. 💡 What’s Inside? ✅ Comprehensive Methodologies: Detailed recommendations for system impact studies tailored to power grids with high shares of wind and solar energy. ✅ Core Challenges Addressed: 1️⃣ Managing variability in renewable energy generation. 2️⃣ Ensuring grid stability with inverter-based, non-synchronous energy sources. ✅ Future-Proof Insights: As wind and solar become mainstream, integration studies will evolve into holistic power system design studies, tackling operational, adequacy, and dynamic challenges. ✅ Standardizing Practices: Recognizing the diversity in current methodologies, this edition emphasizes the need for evolving and unifying approaches to support grids with a higher share of renewables. ⚡ Why It Matters This resource is pivotal for defining renewable energy targets and crafting decarbonization pathways, ensuring that the global energy transition is stable, reliable, and economically sound. 🌐 A Collaborative Global Effort With input from experts across 20+ countries – including research institutes, universities, system operators, and industry leaders – this edition reflects a globally relevant, practical, and robust framework for renewable integration. 📘 Download the full report to explore how you can contribute to a greener, more sustainable energy future 🚀 #RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #WindEnergy #SolarEnergy #EnergyTransition #Decarbonization #CleanEnergy

Feasibility of a utility-scale BESS project: 1. Site Selection Location Suitability: Evaluate the site for physical space, accessibility, and proximity to the grid connection point. Consider factors like land ownership, zoning regulations, potential for expansion. 2. Grid Connection and Integration Interconnection Requirements: Analyze the technical requirements for connecting the BESS to the grid, including voltage levels, power capacity, and grid stability. Grid Compatibility: Ensure the BESS can handle grid dynamics, such as fluctuations in voltage and frequency, and assess the system’s ability to provide ancillary services like frequency regulation or reactive power support. 3. Battery Technology Selection Technology Suitability: Compare different battery technologies (e.g., lithium-ion, flow batteries, solid-state) based on energy density, cycle life, efficiency, and response time to ensure the project’s needs. Thermal Management: Consider the thermal management requirements of the selected battery technology, including cooling systems and potential for thermal runaway. 4. System Sizing & Scalability Energy & Power Requirements: Determine the optimal size of the BESS based on the project's storage and power output. This includes peak load demands, duration of energy discharge, and frequency of cycling. Scalability: Assess the potential for future expansion and whether the system design can be scaled up to accommodate increased demand or additional storage capacity. 5. Performance and Reliability Cycle Life & Degradation: Evaluate the expected cycle life of the batteries and their degradation rate over time, considering the impact on performance and maintenance costs. System Reliability: Analyze the reliability of the entire system, including power conversion systems, inverters, and control systems. Ensure redundancy and fail-safes are in place to maintain continuous operation. 6. Control & Communication Systems EMS: Evaluate the control systems responsible for managing the charge/discharge cycles, ensuring optimal performance, and integrating with the broader energy management strategy. Communication Protocols: Ensure compatibility with existing grid communication protocols and consider the need for secure, real-time data exchange between the BESS and grid operators. 7. Energy Efficiency & Losses Round-Trip Efficiency: Calculate the round-trip efficiency of the BESS, considering losses during charging, discharging, and energy conversion. This impacts the overall economic feasibility of the project. Self-Discharge Rate: Evaluate the self-discharge rate of the batteries and how it affects long-term storage efficiency, especially for applications requiring extended storage. 8. Integration with Renewables Renewable Energy Compatibility: If the BESS is intended to integrate with renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind), assess the compatibility of the system in terms of variability in generation and storage. #BESS #Powersystem #renewable

Grid Integration Challenges for Renewable Energy — Why the Future Grid Must Be Smarter ⚡ As solar PV and wind power grow at record speed, one thing is clear: our traditional grid was not designed for renewable-dominant energy systems. High renewable penetration brings incredible potential—along with new technical challenges that engineers and regulators must solve together. Here are the core challenges: 1. Variability & Unpredictability Solar and wind fluctuate within minutes, creating continuous balancing challenges and requiring faster, more flexible grid control. 2. Voltage & Frequency Instability Traditional grids rely on large synchronous generators that naturally stabilize voltage and frequency. But today, as more inverter-based renewables connect: 🔹Voltage rises and dips become more frequent 🔹Frequency stability weakens without mechanical inertia 🔹System operators face tighter balancing requirements 3. Reverse Power Flow from Distributed PV Rooftop and community solar now push power back into the grid, Instead of power flowing from grid → consumer, we now see frequent consumer → grid feedback. 🔹Transformer stress 🔹Protection miscoordination 🔹Feeder overloading 4. Grid Congestion & Hosting Capacity Limits Aging distribution lines were never built for thousands of microgenerators. Result: feeder congestion, curtailment, and voltage violations during sunny hours. 5. Low Inertia in Renewable-Dominant Grids Inverter-based renewables lack natural inertia, increasing the risk of: 🔹Rapid frequency swings 🔹Poor fault ride-through 🔹Cascading instability Solutions like synthetic inertia and grid-forming inverters are becoming essential. 6. Outdated Infrastructure & Slow Regulatory Updates Legacy grid codes and planning methods still assume centralized fossil generation. We need updated standards, smarter protection, and new interconnection rules. 7. Need for Smart Grids, Storage & Digital Control The clean-energy future requires: 🔹BESS 🔹Smart inverters 🔹IoT-based monitoring 🔹AI forecasting & optimization 🔹Flexible loads & demand response 🔹Microgrids and hybrid systems These technologies transform variability into stability and turn distributed generators into active grid assets. 💡 The Future: A Smart, Flexible, Hybrid Grid Research and global experience show that the solution isn’t just reinforcing the grid — it’s digitizing it. The more renewables we add, the smarter our grid must become, and this transition is already accelerating across the world. #RenewableEnergy #SmartGrid #GridIntegration #CleanEnergy #EnergyTransition #SustainableEnergy #SolarPV #WindEnergy #EnergyStorage #Microgrids #InverterTechnology #DigitalGrid #EnergyInnovation #FutureOfEnergy #Decarbonization

The U.S. #energy sector faces a critical bottleneck as renewable energy projects surge: the grid connection process. A Berkeley Lab article highlights these growing challenges, particularly for #solar, #wind, and #batterystorage. By the end of 2023, grid connection requests reached over 2,600 GW, more than double the capacity of the current U.S. power plant fleet, with renewables comprising 95% of proposed capacity. TO no ones surprise, the interconnection process is increasingly slow and expensive. Projects spend 70% more time in queues compared to a decade ago, with about 80% being withdrawn due to delays and financial hurdles. Costs have risen significantly, with renewable projects often facing interconnection costs making up 30-37% of total project expenses when withdrawn, compared to 6-8% for completed projects. To better understand these dynamics, Berkeley Lab compiled data from over 11,000 active projects seeking grid connection and cost data from more than 5,000 projects. The findings reveal renewable energy projects face higher interconnection costs than fossil fuels, significant geographic cost variations, and challenges with as-available service requests, which are often more expensive than expected. Much of the cost stems from network upgrades, typically borne by project developers. Berkeley Lab suggests reforms to address these barriers. Improved transparency in interconnection data could aid decision-making and navigation. Reassigning upgrade costs to consumers or adopting an average interconnection fee model may offer upfront cost certainty. Operational strategies like “connect and manage,” employed in Texas and the U.K., and technological advancements such as on-site batteries and grid-enhancing technologies, could reduce interconnection costs. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) of Energy’s Transmission Interconnection Roadmap outlines further solutions for clearing the backlog and integrating renewable energy. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission orders also seek to improve generator interconnection and transmission planning. Berkeley Lab’s findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to facilitate the #renewable energy transition. Transparent data, cost management, and technological advancements are essential to overcoming grid connection barriers and ensuring a reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy future

⚡ The Grid Is the New Battleground ⚡ When the world talks about the energy transition, the spotlight usually falls on eye-catching solar farms, offshore wind projects, and the race toward EV adoption. But here’s the hard truth: none of this matters if the grid can’t keep up. At the executive level, this isn’t just a technical concern—it’s a strategic risk and opportunity. The energy transition isn’t defined by how much renewable capacity we can build. It’s defined by whether we can transmit and deliver that power reliably, securely, and at scale. Most existing grids were designed for a different era: Centralized fossil fuel generation with predictable, one-way power flows. Modest peaks in demand, not the surges created by widespread electrification. Networks optimized for stability, not flexibility and resilience. Now, we’re asking those same grids to handle a decentralized, volatile, two-way energy ecosystem. The result? Congestion, delays, stranded renewable assets, and in some regions, outright grid instability. For senior leaders, this has far-reaching implications: Policy & regulation: Transmission approvals and permitting are fast becoming the bottleneck that decides which projects move forward. Investment priorities: Smart grids, storage, and digital management are no longer optional—they’re decisive competitive differentiators. Corporate strategy: Companies that anticipate transmission challenges, and build solutions into their business models, will capture value where others stall. The question isn’t whether we can generate enough renewable energy. The generation is already here. The question is: 👉 Can we deliver it to where it’s needed, when it’s needed—reliably, affordably, and securely? That’s the battleground. And the leaders who recognize it first will set the pace for the energy transition. 💬 I’d love to hear your perspective: do you see transmission as the greatest barrier—or the greatest opportunity—for value creation in the next decade?