Strategic integration of renewable energy systems into the electricity grid

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that 'warming of the climate system is unequivocal' and there is high probability it is anthropogenic.  In response to the growing awareness of climate change, there is an expansion in Australia in the use of renewable energy resources in electricity generation, albeit from a low base. The various renewable energy systems have differing patterns of availability and volatility, and it is difficult to determine the right mixture to best match the demand.  It is imperative that future growth be structured so that both maximum grid penetration and required greenhouse gas reductions be attained. Electricity generation companies are using renewable energy systems to lower greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), but without determining which mixture of technologies is most beneficial.

This project exploits advanced stochastic modelling and dynamic optimisation techniques to structure the integration of renewable energy systems into the electricity supply system, to provide the greatest reduction in GHG's, at least cost, while maintaining supply strictures set by the National Electricity Market Management Company. The methods utilised determine the mix of resources needed to schedule this integration to cater for the stochastic nature of both electricity demand and renewable energy resources while meeting mandatory targets.

This project is funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Project scheme (2009-2011)

For further information, please contact John Boland