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Hybrid Variable Renewable Power Plants: A Case Study of ROR Hydro Arbitrage

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  • Isabel Catarino

    (LIBPhys-UNL, Department of Physics, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal)

  • Inês Romão

    (LIBPhys-UNL, Department of Physics, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal)

  • Ana Estanqueiro

    (LNEG—Laboratório Nacional de Energia e Geologia, 1649-038 Lisboa, Portugal)

Abstract

Wind and solar energy sources, while sustainable, are inherently variable in their power generation, posing challenges to grid stability due to their non-dispatchable nature. To address this issue, this study explores the synergistic optimization of wind and solar photovoltaic resources to mitigate power output variability, reducing the strain on local grids and lessening the reliance on balancing power in high-penetration renewable energy systems. This critical role of providing stability can be effectively fulfilled by run-of-river hydropower plants, which can complement fluctuations without compromising their standard operational capabilities. In this research, we employ a straightforward energy balance model to analyze the feasibility of a 100 MW virtual hybrid power plant, focusing on the northern region of Portugal as a case study. Leveraging actual consumption and conceptual production data, our investigation identifies a specific run-of-river plant that aligns with the proposed strategy, demonstrating the practical applicability of this approach.

Suggested Citation

  • Isabel Catarino & Inês Romão & Ana Estanqueiro, 2025. "Hybrid Variable Renewable Power Plants: A Case Study of ROR Hydro Arbitrage," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(3), pages 1-12, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:3:p:585-:d:1577564
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Hase, Bastian & Seidel, Christian, 2021. "Balancing services by run-of-river-hydropower at low reservoir amplitudes: Potentials, revenues and emission impacts," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 294(C).
    5. Dujardin, Jérôme & Kahl, Annelen & Kruyt, Bert & Bartlett, Stuart & Lehning, Michael, 2017. "Interplay between photovoltaic, wind energy and storage hydropower in a fully renewable Switzerland," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 135(C), pages 513-525.
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