Australian Grid Operator to Conduct Curtailment Drill for Rooftop PV
SA Power Networks announces annual curtailment test to ensure grid stability during emergencies
The Australian grid operator, SA Power Networks, has announced that it will be conducting an annual curtailment test for rooftop PV systems next Tuesday. This test is designed to simulate a rare but urgent situation, allowing the network to confirm that all systems and people are ready to respond in the event of an actual emergency.
Background on Curtailment
Curtailment is a measure used to temporarily reduce the output of rooftop solar generation in order to maintain grid stability during system security emergencies. The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) can direct SA Power Networks to use curtailment to balance electricity supply with demand. This is particularly important in South Australia, which has one of the highest rates of rooftop solar per capita in the world.
Impact on Customers
The curtailment test is expected to impact around 100,000 customers, with the curtailment lasting less than an hour. During this time, solar systems will ramp down to 0 kW before ramping back up, resulting in an average loss of 1.5 kWh of generation per customer. SA Power Networks has likened the test to a fire drill for the grid, ensuring that all systems are ready to respond in the event of an emergency.
Curtailment Challenges
Curtailment is considered one of the biggest challenges facing the development of Australia's solar market. Analysis has shown that South Australia typically experiences moderate curtailment during autumn and winter, followed by a sharp escalation in spring and early summer. However, the Australian Energy Market Commission has unveiled plans to modernize its distribution network planning, which is expected to help lower curtailment of rooftop solar. The number of dwellings with rooftop PV in South Australia has now passed 50%, according to the International Solar Energy Society.
Legislative Framework
The government of South Australia has passed legislation requiring all solar systems installed after September 2020 to be able to be remotely disconnected during a system security emergency. This legislation is designed to support the stable operation of the grid and ensure that curtailment can be implemented effectively when needed. The annual curtailment test is an important part of this framework, allowing SA Power Networks to ensure that all systems are ready to respond in the event of an emergency.
