Introduction
Developers and EPC Contractors of large-scale renewable projects face an increasingly challenging regulatory environment for grid connections. Projects are getting larger and more complex. As a result, AEMO and NSPs require stricter technical due diligence and more onerous generator performance standards, thereby increasing project uncertainty.
GridWise assists its clients through this technically challenging connections process by ensuring high-quality deliverables whilst maintaining a clear view of project commercials. As a result, we help derisk grid connection outcomes and reduce project uncertainty.
We offer a full suite of power system modelling services through all stages of the grid connection process. We have three broad categories for our services, depending on which stage they are in their development cycle.
What we offer
Defining the Project
We assist clients in this stage by assessing early-stage projects and providing input on:
a. Connection point
b. Technology and vendor selection
c. Project size and electrical BoP
A key outcome at the end of this stage is to have a defined project before commencing a time-consuming and expensive connection application GPS study process, reducing uncertainty and risk.
- Project strategic advisory services for site selection; OEM selection support; and NSP/AEMO engagement
- Connection options study
- System strength assessments (PIA)
- Reactive power capability study
- Preliminary harmonic assessment and filter sizing study
- Dynamic reactive plant and SynCon requirements
- EBoP optimisation - grid transformer and MV reticulation
- Project sizing and optimisation
Establishing the Project GPS
We have well-established processes and a full suite of software packages (PSS/E, PSCAD and PowerFactory), automation scripts and hardware capabilities to work through the complex and extensive modelling required for grid studies. This ensures that GPS studies required for connection applications and project NEM registration are fast, efficient and of the highest quality.
- Project modelling in PSSE, PSCAD and PowerFactory
- Model tuning for optimal GPS outcomes
- PSSE and PSCAD DMAT studies and benchmarking
- Static and Dynamic studies per NER Schedule 5.2
- Reporting and formulation of Connection Application or Registration packs
- GPS negotiations with NSP and AEMO
- NSP support during FIA – wide area PSCAD modelling
- EPC support during detailed design - Transformer energisation and Insulation coordination studies
Connecting and Operating the Project
We have extensive experience supporting projects during the hold point and commissioning process. We understand that client requirement on time and quality of deliverables is paramount during this period.
- Commissioning and R2 model validation plan
- Pre-test simulation studies
- Support during staging point and hold point testing
- Post-test data validation and assessment
- Model overlays and R2 model validation in PSSE and PSCAD
- Hold point test report
- Negotiations with NSP and AEMO on hold point release
- Post-commissioning R2 studies and model validation report
- Operational support through specialised modelling and event analysis
- Ongoing GPS compliance studies and reporting