Can grid-connected PV inverters improve utility grid stability?

Grid-connected PV inverters have traditionally been thought as active power sources with an emphasis on maximizing power extraction from the PV modules. While maximizing power transfer remains a top priority, utility grid stability is now widely acknowledged to benefit from several auxiliary services that grid-connected PV inverters may offer.

What is a grid-forming inverter?

Grid-forming solutions address these challenges by providing flexible and resilient responses to grid disturbances, enhancing overall grid stability and energy security. Siemens Energy is at the forefront of this transition, leading the way with cutting-edge grid-forming inverters that deliver essential grid stability, inertia, and resilience.

Which countries use grid-connected PV inverters?

China, the United States, India, Brazil, and Spain were the top five countries by capacity added, making up around 66 % of all newly installed capacity, up from 61 % in 2021 . Grid-connected PV inverters have traditionally been thought as active power sources with an emphasis on maximizing power extraction from the PV modules.

How are inverter-based power supplies transforming the grid?

The shift towards inverter-based power supplies, including renewables, batteries, and other solutions, is transforming the role of power electronics in the grid. Unlike traditional synchronous generators, these technologies are not physically synchronized to the grid, leading to new challenges in maintaining grid stability and security of supply.

Are inverter-based energy sources the same as SGS?

Today, we have more and more renewable energy sources—photovoltaic (PV) solar and wind—connected to the grid by power electronic inverters. These inverter-based resources (IBRs) do not have the same characteristics as SGs, such as inertia and high fault current. This mismatch has not been a problem until now.

Should auxiliary functions be included in grid-connected PV inverters?

Auxiliary functions should be included in Grid-connected PV inverters to help maintain balance if there is a mismatch between power generation and load demand.