Policy & Management

Question 1

Discuss “Demand Diversity”.

Answer 1

Power systems must be designed for the maximum current that can flow. If designed for maximum use, enormous transformers and thick cables would be required.

Question 2

Connecting Embedded Generation: Discuss voltage control and fault level.

Answer 2

Voltage Control: Must be at a higher point of generation connection in order to push power into the system.
Fault Level: Adding generation increases the maximum energy that can be released if a fault occurs.

Question 3

What is a risk related to an embedded generator?

Answer 3

Operator has no control over the system.

Question 4

Name 3 contingency events.

Answer 4

1) Loss of key national transmission interconnectors due to fault/overload.
2) Loss of international interconnections due to fault.
3) Loss of generation: Power station failure.

Question 5

Discuss sub-second sensitivity.

Answer 5

Coal, gas and nuclear plants have large rotating machines that provide system inertia. This helps maintain frequency stability. Most renewables have little/no inertia.

Question 6

Give examples of short duration energy storage devices.

Answer 6

Capacitors, Supercapacitors, Flywheels, SMEs

Question 7

Give examples of medium duration energy storage devices.

Answer 7

Batteries, Flow Batteries, Pumped Hydro, Compressed Air.

Question 8

Give examples of long duration energy storage devices.

Answer 8

Flow batteries, pumped hydro, compressed air.

Question 9

What three points make up the energy trilemma?

Answer 9

Security, sustainability and cost.

Question 10

Give examples of a political risk.

Answer 10

1) Government can change during the lifetime of a project.
2) Incentive schemes may change with development period.
3) Utilities are politically sensitive.
4) regulation changes due to political intervention.

Question 11

Give examples of a planning risk.

Answer 11

1) Regulators usually have limited powers, usually they consult widely.
2) Appeals and referrals cost time and money,