Optimizing the integration of renewable energy - The importance of Speed and Strategy

This paper is an examination of the criteria necessary to optimize the speed of converting the fossil fuel generation profile of a power system to a coordinated set of renewable energy sources with zero emissions. In addition, it provides an overview of the long term impacts that an expedited transition to renewable energy may have on a power system infrastructure without the framework of a strategic plan. The scope of this review is at a global scale, referencing the different experiences from a variety of different countries. The aim is to deduce some of the common elements that may best facilitate the most efficient and appropriate method of bringing on significant volumes of renewable energy to a power system as quickly as possible. It will also look at some of the potential critical process constraints in this fast track implementation plan, and some of the best practices utilized in this global transition to zero emissions.