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The role of conventional generation in managing variability

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  • Kubik, M.L.
  • Coker, P.J.
  • Hunt, C.

Abstract

As electricity systems incorporate increasing levels of variable renewable generation, conventional plant will be required to operate more flexibly, with potential impacts for economic viability and reliability. Northern Ireland is pursuing an ambitious target of 40% of electricity to be supplied from renewable sources by 2020. The dominant source of this energy is anticipated to come from inherently variable wind power, one of the most mature renewable technologies. Conventional thermal generators will have a significant role to play in maintaining security of supply. However, running conventional generation more flexibly in order to cater for a wind led regime can reduce its efficiency, as well as shortening its lifespan and increasing O&M costs. This paper examines the impacts of variable operation on existing fossil fuel based generators, with a particular focus on Northern Ireland. Access to plant operators and industry experts has provided insight not currently evident in the energy literature. Characteristics of plant operation and the market framework are identified that present significant challenges in moving to the proposed levels of wind penetration. Opportunities for increasing flexible operation are proposed and future research needs identified.

Suggested Citation

  • Kubik, M.L. & Coker, P.J. & Hunt, C., 2012. "The role of conventional generation in managing variability," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 50(C), pages 253-261.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:50:y:2012:i:c:p:253-261
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2012.07.010
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Delucchi, Mark A. & Jacobson, Mark Z., 2011. "Providing all global energy with wind, water, and solar power, Part II: Reliability, system and transmission costs, and policies," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 39(3), pages 1170-1190, March.
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    8. Fell, Harrison & Kaffine, Daniel T., 2014. "A one-two punch: Joint eects of natural gas abundance and renewables on coal-red power plants," CEnREP Working Papers 340063, North Carolina State University, Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics.
    9. Antti Alahäivälä & Juha Kiviluoma & Jyrki Leino & Matti Lehtonen, 2017. "System-Level Value of a Gas Engine Power Plant in Electricity and Reserve Production," Energies, MDPI, vol. 10(7), pages 1-13, July.
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