In order to achieve Net Zero emissions in the UK by 2050 and decarbonize the energy sector the integration of increased volumes of additional renewable wind energy is critical. Distribution network operators face challenges in increasing the capacity of this variable source of energy onto the electricity networks. Distribution network operators in Scotland have integrated more wind energy onto their networks to date and have learnings through experience that are worth investigating. The research conducted in this thesis is a comparative analysis of the Network Development Plans of three UK distribution Network Operators, Scottish Power Energy Networks in southern Scotland, Scottish and Southern Energy Networks in northern Scotland, and UK Power Networks in the southeast of England area. The method used is a comparative analysis of the Network Development Plan documents using a set of pre-selected variables while also allowing for other new emergent variables to be included in the analysis and results. The pre-defined variables are grid capacity, flexibility, grid integration technologies, market structures, planning and regulatory framework, operational experience, efficiency, and location / wind availability. Variable codewords were used to perform the document search and related keywords were used where returns were insufficient. Two further variables emerged frequently in the texts as a result of keyword searches which were transmission links and energy storage and were also included in discussions. Results of the research reveal that Scottish Hydro Electricity Power Distribution, who operate in the north of Scotland, and Scottish Power Energy Networks who operate in the south of Scotland, appear to have a more innovative and proactive approach to grid integration technologies, stakeholder engagement, and innovation projects for increased wind energy integration. UK Power Networks have a larger investment plan approved by the UK electricity and gas markets regulator, Ofgem, but lack of experience in integration of large volumes of wind energy leaves it lagging behind its counterparts when it comes to integration and management of wind energy. Findings from analysis of the Network Development Plans is backed up in literature which claim that energy storage, smart grid technologies, and infrastructure upgrades are critical for integration of wind energy to transform it into a reliable and predictable energy source and manage its integration on to the electricity networks.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:uu-509441 |
| Date | January 2023 |
| Creators | O'Mahony, Patrick |
| Publisher | Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för geovetenskaper |
| Source Sets | DiVA Archive at Upsalla University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Student thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Rights | info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess |
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