Improving grid reliability with wind energy, new wind farm in Massachusetts, and drivetrain innovations

This Thursday, a study shows wind can improve grid reliability, new wind in Massachusetts, and GE innovates in drivetrain technology.

Wind farms can help balance loads on the grid, according to a new report from NREL and the Electric Power Research Institute and the University of Colorado:

  • A new study finds that wind power can assist the grid by controlling the active power output being placed onto the system. Active power control helps to balance loads with generation to avoid erroneous power flows, involuntary load shedding, machine damage, and the risk of potential blackouts.
  • The challenge with integrating high concentrations of wind power into electric systems is that it is commonly considered a variable, uncertain energy source. This new approach challenges this viewpoint and repositions wind as an integral part of the grid.