Main grid
24-hour readiness in widespread electricity outages
The Network Code for Emergency and Restoration harmonises the actions of transmission system operators during an electricity system disturbance.
5.4.2017
The Network Code for Emergency and Restoration harmonises the actions of transmission system operators during an electricity system disturbance.
Fingrid wanted to improve the availability and reliability of HVDC interconnections to a level that matched the importance of these cross-border connections. Major improvements in 2016 cut the number of outages ‘due to disturbances’ in half and reduced their duration to less than one-tenth of the average in previous years. How did Fingrid achieve such a fine outcome?
Fingrid has received several inquiries about locating solar power plants in transmission line areas. However, it is not possible from the main grid’s perspective. Locating a wind power plant near a main grid transmission line is also problematic. Guidelines concerning wind and solar power plants are included in the updated planning guidelines meant for land-use planners from municipalities.
Fingrid’s general connection terms will be renewed this year. There is a need to update the current connection terms to respond to today’s requirements.
Our entire energy system is undergoing a fundamental change. Fingrid’s strategy recognises that this change is taking us toward clean energy technologies and a carbon-neutral society.
Early this year, Finland initiated discussion about the need to fix the electricity market, subsequently bringing about a broad-ranging exchange of ideas. The first concrete pilot project in the Nordic electricity exchange has also been launched.
The smart grid workgroup, established this autumn by the Ministry of Employment and the Economy, was tasked with increasing the flexibility of the electricity market and finding out how smart grids could be utilised in the future, especially in the consumer interface.
Greater use of underground cables has increased the amount of reactive power and thus main grid maintenance costs. This means that, starting at the beginning of next year, Fingrid will have to monitor consumption of reactive power on a connection-specific basis and charge for it if consumption exceeds specified limits. In the future, it may be sensible for electricity companies to invest in technology that compensates for reactive power in a suitable manner.
The operational planning office of four Nordic transmission system operators is currently launching its operations in Copenhagen. Closer cooperation will also improve the functioning of the Nordic market and TSOs.
When do we use reserve power, and when do we use peak load capacity? How often are they needed? Is sufficient reserve power always available? What is the purpose of a power balance forecast?