UQ Power Systems of the Future

Client

University of Queensland

Location

QLD

Timeframe

2020 - 2023

Scope

QGE were part of a research consortium with the University of QLD (UQ), Powerlink, Manitoba Hydro and other parties to model the effects on the electricity grid based on the Queensland Government’s 50% renewable energy target for 2030 and beyond.

QGE developed models for dynamically sizeable solar & wind farms and battery systems for the purpose of modelling the stability of the grid. The intention of this project was to design and develop a process and software tools for rapid deployment of grid connection electrical models that can be rapidly tuned to perform stably and meet the NER requirements.

Background

Connection of generators to the electrical grid is technically complex and requires dynamic modelling to ensure ongoing stability of the power system. The present transformation to renewable energy and battery storage is forecast to increase over the coming decades. This means that many new renewable generators and grid support technologies will need to be connected within Australia in a relatively short period.

QGE achieved the following technical objectives:

Parameterised grid connection models in PSCAD & PSS/E
Designed and developed a software tool to automate the control and stability tuning of the PSCAD and PSS/E models.
Designed and developed a software tool to automate the benchmark testing of the PSCAD and PSS/E models in an area wide model.

Outcomes

Grid system strength and impedances have a significant impact on model performance and benchmark alignment. This can result in system instabilities which can be hard to overcome. Instabilities were resolved by QGE’s engineers, enabling the rapid deployment of the connected models in the state-wide QLD grid model.

The models and deployment methods developed by QGE were successfully deployed by the research team. The parameterized, resizable generation models can be created with acceptable alignment between PSCAD and PSS/E modelling packages, and can be rapidly deployed at a given grid connection point enabling a resizable model to be installed at multiple grid locations within hours.

Refer to https://solar-energy.uq.edu.au/project/enabling-power-systems-future for further details and information.

Why Choose Us

WE ARE THE EXPERTS IN THE FIELD

QGE are recognised leaders in hazardous areas and in grid connected solar PV, which is only possible because of our rock-solid foundation in electrical and controls engineering. We have the knowledge and experience to provide a cost-effective solution, whatever the problem.

WE ARE CONSTANTLY INNOVATING

Our cloud software, controls and telemetry solutions, and grid export control panels are all products of our ongoing investments in new technology and engineering processes, and we continue to push the boundaries with involvement in blockchain and peer-to-peer energy trading.

WE ARE EASY TO WORK WITH

At QGE we genuinely enjoy what we do, which means we’re always willing to go the extra mile for our customers to deliver the right solution. We have great client relationships because people like working with us.

Testimonials

Over several years, QGE have provided control systems design and on site support for upgrades and expansion projects. We’ve been very satisfied with the quality of their solutions and the high level of support they have provided our remote mine site.

Jude Barnes

Sepon Mine Site - MMG

QGE have worked with us for several years on hazardous area issues and have classified a number of our facilities, including new-technology processes, where we’ve been very satisfied with the pragmatic approach they’ve taken and the outcomes for our business.

Ferdi van Staden

Coogee Chemicals

The QGE team understood the project’s constraints and requirements, and were able to deliver a commercial solution that has allowed Agrimin to achieve a higher renewables penetration and lower energy cost than it had expected.

Rhys Bradley – Chief Commercial Officer

Agrimin