The power grid is changing. Are we ready?

Devices connected to the grid through power electronics respond more dramatically to sudden changes in the electricity grid, leaving less time for grid operators to react and avoid a power outage. Additionally, power electronics can have unexpected interactions with other devices in the grid, causing existing approaches to grid control to become less effective.

The local electricity grid of Walenstadt in the east of Switzerland is a good example of a grid that relies heavily on power electronics. In addition to its three traditional hydroelectric plants, it also has three large grid-scale batteries and several solar panel installations. By studying the Walenstadt grid, we can better understand how grids with a high share of power electronics behave and figure out under what conditions they fail.

To simulate how its various components interact under different scenarios, we are creating a computational model of the Walenstadt grid. This model can then be used to simulate how the grid responds to disturbances, such as an equipment failure or a sudden change in electricity use, when it is disconnected from the larger Swiss electricity grid. Finally, the results of this analysis can be used to identify strategies to reduce the risk of power outages when disturbances occur.

By better understanding how grids with a high share of power electronics behave, this work contributes to the broader goal of creating a sustainable energy system that does not compromise the reliability of our electricity grids.