High Penetration of Variable Renewable Energies and Supply-Demand Balance in the Western Japan Grid: Pumped-Storage Systems and Interzone Transmission

Abstract

This study developed a simplified Unit Commitment model to evaluate the future effects of high penetration of variable renewable energies (VREs) on the supply-demand balance of the western Japan grid in 2030. The utilization of the daytime-pumping mode of pumped storage hydropower, inter-regional transmission, and heat pump systems (HPs) and electric vehicle (EV) charging can accommodate a major portion of the power supply from VREs in the High case. The hourly activation of HPs and EV charging must be well adjusted with reduced operation of coal power units and levels of PV output. Control reserve activations through inter-regional transmission lines are recommended.