1D Grids and Infrastructure: The backbone of renewable energy systems

In many regions there is still reluctance to move away from fossil fuels, fearing that the variable nature of wind and solar generation will cause problems for regional energy supplies. This session will show that achieving grids with high renewable energy shares (even 100%) are possible and discuss the parameters needed to facilitate these high shares in both distribution and high-voltage grids, from the perspective of grid operators and users. It will also explore the diverse challenges in making power grids fit for renewables – such as complex, multi-level approval systems (United States), problems siting transmission lines (Germany), barriers to investment (Vietnam), costly and lengthy procedures for connecting projects to the grid, i.e., offshore and onshore wind power (globally), and the role of storage.