Our GB Transmission Grid Model is at the forefront of supporting the future of curtailment analysis, driving innovation and efficiency in energy management.
GB Transmission Grid Model
Blake Clough Consulting has developed a comprehensive Great Britain (GB) Transmission System Model to support Transmission Curtailment Analysis. Built in-house, this model reflects the current GB transmission network and future scenarios. Following our work on Tranche 1, we are now deploying the model for Tranche 2 projects to provide detailed analysis and insights.
Visualising the GB Transmission Network
The following figures demonstrate different aspects of our GB Transmission System Model:
- Geographical Map of the GB Transmission Network:
The map below provides a geographical representation of the transmission system across England, Scotland, and Wales. This view is instrumental in understanding regional infrastructure and designing location-specific renewable energy profiles.
- PowerFactory Model Representation:
The figure below showcases the GB transmission system modelled within DIgSILENT PowerFactory, including critical transmission lines, nodes, and boundaries. This model also incorporates High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) interconnectors, reflecting the increasing importance of cross-border electricity flows and the integration of renewable energy sources.
Solar Profile Comparison Across Locations
A key feature of our GB Transmission Grid Model is its ability to generate and compare location-specific renewable energy profiles. The plot below compares solar generation profiles for two substations: Indian Queens in Cornwall and Dunbeath in Scotland. The data illustrates how geographical location significantly influences solar output, with differences in irradiance levels and seasonal variability.
- Indian Queens (Cornwall): Located in the south, Cornwall benefits from higher solar irradiance, reflected in greater generation levels throughout the year.
- Dunbeath (Scotland): In contrast, the northern location of Dunbeath results in lower solar generation due to reduced sunlight availability.
This analysis highlights the importance of location-specific modelling to optimise renewable generation forecasts and inform project planning.
Developing the GB Transmission Grid Model
Our model was created using DIgSILENT PowerFactory, a widely used platform in power systems analysis. It includes geographically accurate representations of the GB transmission network. One key feature is the ability to generate custom wind and solar generation profiles for renewable generators. This is made possible by geographical precision enabled through Python scripting and peer-reviewed solar energy data sources, ensuring detailed and relevant analysis.
The model also incorporates:
- HVDC interconnectors: Enabling the simulation of cross-border energy flows and the integration of large-scale renewables.
- Operational dispatching simulations: Reflecting real-world scenarios.
- Dynamic load and generation profiles: Adjusting for evolving energy demands and infrastructure changes.
- Geographical accuracy: Supporting site-specific renewable energy analysis.
Curtailment and Constraint Analysis
The model provides load flow analysis to study system behaviour under various operational conditions. Key capabilities include:
- Thermal boundary analysis: Identifying transmission system limits.
- Contingency analysis: Evaluating system resilience under different constraints.
These tools allow for a detailed evaluation of curtailment risks and system constraints, helping developers optimise project planning and operations.
Supporting Future Energy Scenarios and Transmission Connections
The model incorporates data from National Grid ESO’s Future Energy Scenarios (FES) to forecast half-hourly demand for every Grid Supply Point (GSP) through 2050. This provides a foundation for integrating renewable energy, battery storage, and future infrastructure developments.
Key Insights for Tranche 2:
- Tranche 1 Contributions: Supported the acceleration of standalone Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) under operational constraints.
- Scalable demand forecasting: Simulating merit order dispatch using PowerFactory’s unit commitment module.
- Custom renewable profiles: Enabling site-specific generation forecasting for wind and solar assets across GB.
- Client-specific regional modelling: Allowing for analysis tailored to individual project needs and local conditions.
Supporting Curtailment Analysis for Energy Projects
Blake Clough Consulting’s GB Transmission Grid Model provides a structured approach to addressing curtailment and system constraints. The model is designed to help developers manage challenges and achieve project objectives effectively. Whether working on Tranche 2 or other transmission initiatives, we can assist with reducing timelines for transmission connections and offering reliable system analysis.
For more information or to discuss your project, please contact us.