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EDF R&D discusses the key challenges and solutions of integrating renewable energies

EDF (Electricité de France) presents key challenges induced by the development of renewable energy sources and its related innovative solutions

In a context of "energy transition" and decarbonation of the world economy, the development of intermittent renewable energy sources (RES), mainly wind and solar, induces major challenges for utilities, grid operators and renewables producers.

Renewable generation sources have different technical characteristics compared to centralised and conventional power plants (intermittency, size, location, interconnection…). Their increased penetration into power systems reinforces the need for new and efficient investments in grids and flexible solutions, along with increased supervision and control, enhanced renewables forecasting and ways to optimise generation fleets. These growing needs are indeed aligned with ambitious objectives to increase the share of renewables in energy mixes all over the world.

In parallel, strong technological innovation brings new solutions along to facilitate the integration of RES in electric power systems, while optimising investments and ensuring reliable and secure power supply. Those solutions have been developed and tested by EDF through several demonstrators and operational projects.

EDF R&D believes that sharing best practices and solutions becomes a key objective to foster renewables integration in electric power systems (large and interconnected ones, or smaller systems like islands or microgrids). This White Paper intends then to contribute to a widespread knowledge in this key domain.

For more information, read the full white paper below.