Context
A medium-sized distribution network operator (DNO) located in a rural area is seeing a proliferation of multi-megawatt generation projects within its territory. These projects are rapidly consuming the existing electrical network’s hosting capacity, raising concerns about potential rapid saturation of the medium-voltage network and limiting possibilities for future connections.
Non-firm grid connections appear to be a promising solution to increase the existing network’s hosting capacity, as they allow for deferring or even avoiding reinforcements. In France, non-firm grid connections were introduced into the Energy Code by the Decree of July 12, 2021, and are beginning to be occasionally deployed by some DNOs, both in France and abroad, for connecting producers to the medium-voltage network.
Problem Statement
The DNO therefore sought a critical analysis of the various solutions implemented by other DNOs, both technically (operationally and at the study office level) and contractually. This analysis aimed to determine which solutions would or would not be adapted to the specificities of its own network. To make this analysis more concrete, the DNO also wanted to evaluate, through simulation, the techno-economic relevance of this type of connection for a few specific cases drawn from real connection projects on its network.
Achievements
- Benchmarking of technical and contractual solutions adopted by other DNOs for implementing non-firm grid connection connection offers.
- Identification of three case studies; collection of necessary input data for their simulation; network modeling; simulation of the flexible connection.
- Analysis of the techno-economic relevance of the non-firm connections for each of the three selected cases.
- Analysis of the technical mechanisms (control-command, communication) to be implemented.
- Outline of associated contractual rules.
Impact
The project provided the DNO with an initial roadmap on how to implement Smart Connection Offers on its own network, taking into account its specific technical and operational characteristics.
