The Energy Transition Show with Chris Nelder [Episode #153] – Grid-forming Inverters
Aug 18, 2021
Wallace Kenyon, a researcher at the University of Colorado and NREL, dives into the fascinating world of grid-forming inverters and their role in the renewable energy transition. He discusses how these inverters can effectively integrate with traditional synchronous generators. Kenyon also tackles the importance of system inertia and its impact on grid stability amidst a rising reliance on renewables. Plus, he highlights innovative energy management practices, including successful microgrid implementations and the ongoing legal battles surrounding coal expansion.
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Inertia Not Always Necessary
- System inertia is not theoretically necessary to keep power flowing on electrical grids.
- Inertia only exists because of synchronous generators currently dominating power systems.
Role of Synchronous Generators
- Synchronous generators create electricity by spinning heavy rotors coupled to voltage waveforms.
- Their physical inertia helps stabilize grid frequency instantly when load changes.
Texas Freeze Grid Failure
- During the Texas freeze, multiple generators failed causing a rapid frequency drop.
- ERCOT had to shed massive load to stabilize the grid and avoid a blackout.