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Title: Grid flexibility: The quiet revolution

Journal Article · · Electricity Journal
 [1];  [2]
  1. USDOE Washington, DC (United States). Energy Policy and Systems Analysis Office
  2. Millennium Challenge Corporation (United States)

The concept of flexibility describes the capability of the power system to maintain balance between generation and load under uncertainty. While the grid has historically incorporated flexibility-specific resources such as pumped hydro to complement nuclear generators, modern trends and the increased deployment of variable energy resources (VERs) are increasing the need for a transparent market value of flexibility. A review of analyses, docket filings, tariffs, and business practice manuals from the past several years finds substantial flexibility-related activity. These activities are categorized as market and financial structures; incorporation of new operations or technology; and legal or procedural reforms. The cumulative outcome of these incremental changes will be a major transformation to power systems that can rapidly adapt to new needs, technologies, and conditions.

Research Organization:
USDOE Office of Policy and International Affairs (PO) (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
1352338
Journal Information:
Electricity Journal, Vol. 30, Issue 2; ISSN 1040-6190
Publisher:
ElsevierCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (3)

Techno-economic review of existing and new pumped hydro energy storage plant journal May 2010
Wholesale electricity market design with increasing levels of renewable generation: Incentivizing flexibility in system operations journal May 2016
Serving the Future: Advanced Wind Generation Technology Supports Ancillary Services journal November 2015