Hybridization of Distributed Energy Resources in a Steelworks

The steel industry is currently in the midst of a profound transformation aimed at decarbonization. This shift involves the electrification of various production processes that currently depend on coal or gas for power. Additionally, there are plans to integrate wind and photovoltaic generation systems into the grids supplying steelworks to align with global CO
₂
emission reduction goals. The combination of these two generation systems offers notable benefits, alongside several drawbacks, primarily concerning the loss of inertia characteristic of conventional synchronous generators. In this paper, two main loads are examined because they are responsible for a significant portion of the existing electricity consumption in the steelworks: the hot rolling mill and the electric arc furnace. Concurrently, global demand forecasts are assessed, taking into account the injection of power from a wind farm and a photovoltaic plant connected to the distribution network supplying the steelworks. The analysis of the demand curve enables the projection of substantial power fluctuations capable of affecting frequency control, given the reduced equivalent inertia of the power system following the integration of renewable resources. To mitigate these power variations and enhance frequency control, the advantages of a battery-based storage system and the coordinated management of resources are scrutinized.