Stability Assessment of High Penetration of Inverter-Based Generation in the ERCOT Grid

Abstract

ERCOT recorded 54% instantaneous wind generation penetration in 2017 and expects to continue to see an increase in renewable generation in the future which will present new challenges for grid operators. Therefore, ERCOT conducted a dynamic stability assessment for a potential future scenario of 70% instantaneous renewable penetration to identify and increase the understanding of system issues and potential mitigation options under high inverter-based generation penetration scenarios. Maintaining a stable and reliable grid under high penetration of inverter-based generation will require collaboration between ERCOT and all stakeholders, including manufacturers of inverter-based generators and transmission dynamic devices, to develop effective solutions. This report summarizes the study and includes observations and recommendations ERCOT has for its region.