The integration of new generation technologies to the existing transmission system in the UK required modifications to the technical rules that are used to determine transmission planning and transmission connection conditions.
OFGEM requested Sinclair Knight Merz propose changes to the rules pertaining to the connection to and operation of, the 400kV – 275kV transmission system in England and Wales.
SKM made an assessment of the suitability of the existing Grid Codes conditions for the connection of new generation technologies and the possible implications for transmission system operation. In particular, the implications for on-going stable system operation and the ability to ride through and recover from fault conditions where necessary.
Recommendations were made on SKM’s assessment of the transmission system planning and operational issues on modifications to the NGC Grid Codes, which were later extended to the Scottish Grid Codes.
SKM assessed new generation technologies in terms of:
-
fault ride capability
-
ability to provide frequency control, voltage control
-
ramp rates capability
-
reactive power range; and
-
implications for existing protection schemes if new generation technologies were connected.