Challenges of large-scale wind integration in the ERCOT system

Summary form only given. ERCOT has experienced an increase in installed capacity over the past several years. At present levels of installed wind capacity in the ERCOT Interconnect there are observed instances of significant wind generation variation. The rapid rate of wind generation installation has outpaced the capability of the transmission system to deliver the power from remote wind rich areas to the load centers. The variability of the wind, along with transmission limitations, has imposed several challenges to ERCOT Operations. These challenges include the ability to forecast wind output, as well as manage frequency and voltage variability. Wind power forecasting has been a key factor in being able to incorporate large amounts of wind generation. ERCOT has incorporated the wind forecasting variability into the methodology for procuring ancillary services. A new nodal market system has also helped ERCOT manage the dispatch of wind generation in order to manage congestion and variability of output.