The issue of predictability, variability and intermittency of wind generation is well known and can be addressed in several ways. Here are just four technology-related steps Paul could undertake to improve the consistency of electricity from his wind power suppliers:

1. Review the portfolio of wind power suppliers in terms of where their wind farms are located and their interconnection points to Highview’s T&D system. Changing the interconnection to different substations may help to spread the variability and reduce its impact to the Highview T&D system. In some cases this may be the fastest and lowest-cost solution.
   
   
2. For short-term undersupply of contracted wind energy, Paul should consider an energy storage solution – battery storage, for example. Although the initial investment to install such a system can be high, the ability to store energy could provide relief from the situation Paul is facing of buying costly power on the spot market to compensate during periods of undersupply. It provides the additional benefit of allowing Highview to absorb excess power during periods of over-production. It works both ways. Depending on the contracts Highview has with its wind power suppliers, implementation of an energy storage solution may be done by the utility or the independent supplier.
   
   
3. Highview should also evaluate whether Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) would be beneficial in its distribution network – especially during peak load periods to lower electricity demand load. This could offset – or even eliminate – the gap that results from underproduction from wind energy sources. Tighter VAr regulation and flatter voltage profiles of the feeders could solve the problem.
   
   
4. Highview should consider other sources of renewable energy, such as solar and photovoltaic (PV) generation, to balance out its renewable energy portfolio. Depending on specific geographic locations, solar and PV can complement wind energy availability; in locations where wind energy may be higher at night, solar and PV peak during the day.
   
   

With 29 years at ABB, Dennis McKinley is director of its North American Wind Power segment. He earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Franklin University, and has served in roles that include engineering, engineering management, operations management, sales, sales management and business development.