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The Energy Systems Integration Group (ESIG) released a new report that provides clarity to the industry on evaluating the core voltage source behavior of identifying grid-forming (GFM) resources, which is important for improving grid strength and supporting stability of bulk power systems.
GFM technology is a critical solution for maintaining grid stability with increasing renewables. Several power systems deploy GFM-enabled battery storage systems to provide voltage and frequency control traditionally supplied by conventional generators. These early adopters are leading development of technical specifications for GFM resources, using operational experience to establish industry standards.
The report includes test methods that are well accepted by industry as well as new methods that are still evolving and not yet widely used. It also provides example specifications and performance metrics for test methods that can be tailored to the characteristics of the system where a GFM resource is going to be installed.
“Grid stability is a major challenge in operating power systems with high levels of inverter-based generation and large electronic loads,” said Shahil Shah, a principal engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. “Grid-forming resources—such as batteries with grid-forming controls and synchronous condensers—can increase system strength and help mitigate stability concerns. However, the industry still lacks standardized, universally accepted test methods and performance metrics to rigorously quantify the system-strength benefits of grid-forming resources.”