Grid connection planning

Infrastructures for the energy transition 2.0

The grid connection is a crucial component of a renewable energy project and is regulated, among others, by the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). This law grants extensive rights to renewable energy generation facilities. The connection must be provided promptly by the grid operator, and the uptake of renewable electricity must be prioritized over other sources. If the grid cannot accommodate the planned capacity, the grid operator is obliged to expand its network. To obtain a grid connection, a system has been established in practice where a grid compatibility assessment is carried out by the grid operator after the application. The grid connection point is determined by the grid operator, who is required by the EEG to create the most economically advantageous Point of Common Coupling (PCC). This means that the sum of the connection costs of the plant operator and grid operator must be minimal. Additionally, the law grants a certain right of choice to the applicant.

In the grid connection planning, the design of electrical components such as transformers, cables, or control technology, as well as the cable route planning and installation from the generation plant to the grid connection point, are planned. Depending on the size of the project, the construction of a substation at the point of common coupling is necessary.

Holistic renewable energy projects combine various technologies such as wind turbines, photovoltaics, and storage solutions. These projects can be particularly efficient and create synergies in terms of grid connection, as the load profiles of wind and PV complement each other excellently.