The importance of grid requirements is growing
In recent years, battery and solar power plants, as well as hybrid projects combining multiple forms of energy production, have become increasingly common. At the same time, the number of inverter and controller manufacturers has grown. The equipment introduced by new players is often unfamiliar to grid operators, making detailed simulation and verification of power plant functionality essential before granting permission to connect to the grid.
Finland leads the way in European grid requirements
In Europe, the Finnish transmission system operator Fingrid is a pioneer in the development and implementation of grid codes. In Finland, new grid requirements will be introduced in the coming months, and within the next few years, a European-wide network code is expected. This code will include additional requirements, particularly for grid-forming capabilities in inverter-connected projects.
How to prepare for new requirements? Expert support ensures smooth project progress
Ampner has been a specialist in verifying grid compliance since 2012. We have led the grid code compliance process for numerous projects across the Nordics and Estonia. Most of the verified power plants have been implemented according to Fingrid’s comprehensive requirements. At the core of our process is power plant modeling, typically conducted in simulation environments such as PSS/E, PSCAD, and DIgSILENT PowerFactory, where the plant’s performance is tested under required operating conditions. Additionally, power plants undergo thorough grid compliance testing, and results are validated against the tests.
Ampner is well-prepared for tightening grid requirements in many ways. We have invested in resources for simulation and testing to ensure our customers’ projects can be connected to the grid on schedule and in compliance with the requirements. We utilize market-leading simulation tools, including PSS/E, PSCAD, and DIgSILENT PowerFactory. Furthermore, we have addressed increasing simulation demands by acquiring additional software licenses and a high-performance computing system. Our measurement equipment has also been updated to meet the high sampling rate requirements set by most grid operators.
Ampner is committed to staying at the forefront of new requirements and continuously improving our operations. We are dedicated to ensuring that your power plants, energy storage systems, and even future consumption points meet the increasingly stringent grid requirements. Incorporating grid compliance considerations already in the early stages of a project can significantly streamline its progress – and at Ampner, we are ready to assist, now and in the future.