An adaptive renewable energy plant (AREP) - To power local premises and vehicles with 100% renewables. (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Boulaire, Fanny; Love, Jonathan; Mackinnon, Ian
• Is Part Of: Energy strategy reviews. Volume 38(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: Green hydrogen -- Electrical vehicles -- Renewables -- Grid balancing -- Adaptive response -- Hybrid systems; Energy policy -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.esr.2021.100703
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2211-467X

Abstract

Abstract: An adaptive response renewable energy plant (AREP) that provides grid balancing services and XeV station fuelling services (where "X" is any type) using renewable energy located in urban centres is described. The AREP has its own primary renewable energy sources and adapts operation in the short term to changing levels of excess or deficient energy on LV and MV electricity grids. The AREP adaptively responds by (1) storing excess energy in batteries for the short term and in hydrogen tanks after energy conversion by electrolysers for the long term; (2) returning power to the grid from either the AREP's own primary (electron-based) energy sources or batteries and/or from hydrogen via conversion in fuel cells; (3) providing electricity for fast charging BeVs and PHeVs and hydrogen for FCeVs; and (4) exporting excess stored energy as hydrogen to domestic markets. The AREP also adapts over the long term by predictive planning of charging capacity such that the type and capacity of renewable energy equipment is optimised for future operations. A key advantage of this AREP configuration is a flexible, "plug and play" capability with modular extension of energy assets. If the AREP footprint is constrained, interaction with neighbouring AREPs as a mini-VPP-AREP network can assist in balancing short-term operating requirements. The benefits of this grid balancing and XeV renewable energy filling station, or AREP, are environmental, social and economic through efficient functionality of appropriately sized components. AREPs provide a net zero emissions electricity solution to an existing network with short and long-term storage options as well as a net zero emissions fuel alternative to the transport sector, while leveraging existing infrastructure with minimal upfront CAPEX. AREPs can give the flexibility a grid needs to enable high levels of renewable installations while developing green hydrogen production. Highlights: AREPs offer a novel approach to jointly decarbonise the energy sector and develop the green hydrogen economy. AREPs provide grid balancing services and station fuelling services using renewable energy located in urban centres. AREPs' distinguishing feature is adaptability (forms and volumes of energy, types and sizes of equipment, and software). AREPs are a network-centric response and a customer-centric response in the renewable energy transition. AREPs answer the requirement of sustainable development.