DG+IG update: Renewables integration and policy solutions
Recently, the Clean Coalition modeled how intelligent grid solutions can support the integration of high penetrations of renewables onto the grid.
As a key step in ensuring that from 2020 onward at least 50% of all new energy generation in the United States comes from local sources, the Clean Coalition continues its Distributed Generation + Intelligent Grid (DG+IG) Initiative to prove that local renewables connected to the distribution grid can provide at least 25% of the total electric energy consumed within the distribution grid while maintaining or improving grid reliability.
Recently, the Clean Coalition modeled how intelligent grid solutions – such as demand response, advanced inverters, and energy storage – can support the integration of high penetrations of renewables onto the grid. The first model proves that DG+IG enables system operators to maintain grid reliability by keeping power in balance. Upcoming models will illustrate the impact of DG+IG on voltage and frequency. Collectively, the three models – energy, voltage, and frequency – will illustrate how a fully integrated DG+IG power system reduces the need for expensive peaker plants to provide back-up power and grid services.
The Clean Coalition also released a roadmap to guide the country’s timely and cost-effective transition towards a modern power system. The roadmap includes summaries of key – and readily available – IG technologies, as well as policy recommendations.
