The impact of variable wind and demand levels on the flexible operation of interconnectors in Great Britain

Abstract

This paper analyses the potential benefits for flexible operation of interconnectors in cross-border power systems. The underlying modelling approach enables the simultaneous cross-border exchange of power and inertia-dependent frequency response services through the interconnector. Two main operational paradigms are adopted. The first considers the interconnectors as centrally-operated assets; the latter envisages them as profit-seeking private entities. Furthermore, the proposed work adopts a sampling-based method to assess the impact of wind and demand variability on the short-term operation of the interconnectors, evaluating the sensitivities of relevant operational and economical metrics with respect to wind availability and demand levels. A comprehensive set of case studies is developed considering the Great Britain (GB)-France interconnected systems. The studies show significant value for interconnectors under a wide range of system conditions.