Wind Energy Interconnection Standards, Technology Now Maturing

The variability of wind-turbine output can raise problems for the interconnections between wind farms and electricity grids, and standards have been lacking to address these designs. However, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a ruling in December establishing new interconnection standards for large generators with capacities of 20 MW and above. And new equipment now being tested could help address special considerations that exist when wind resources constitute an especially high proportion of a grid's overall load.

The new FERC standard—Order No. 661-A—is based on proposals developed in negotiations between the American Wind Energy Assn. and the North American Electric Reliability Council. Specifically, the document covers low-voltage ride-through requirements and power-factor issues along with providing a transition period for currently installed turbines.