Grid-Connected Wind Power Plants: A Survey on the Integration Requirements in Modern Grid Codes

Abstract

In recent years, the integration of wind power generation facilities, and especially offshore wind power generation facilities, into power grids has increased rapidly. Therefore, the grid codes concerning wind power integration have become a major factor in ensuring power system reliability. This work compares grid codes about wind power integration around the world. The grid codes of Denmark, Ireland, the U.K., Germany, Spain, China, the U.S., Canada, and other countries are considered. The most important of these grid codes concern reactive power, frequency regulation, fault ride through, and power quality. Several grid codes also address communication, ramp rate, and offshore wind power plants. This work provides information on the future of grid code requirements for offshore wind power integration, which helps the system operators ensure the safe operation of a power system with a high penetration of wind power generation.