Clean Grid Vision: A U.S. Perspective - Chapter 1. Clean Grid Scenarios

Abstract

This multiyear program seeks to build capacity and assist Chinese stakeholders to articulate low carbon pathways to achieve energy systems with a high share of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low carbon emission.The Clean Grid Vision comprises two major reports: Clean Grid Vision-A U.S. Perspective, written by NREL, and Clean Grid Vision-A Chinese Perspective, written by SGERI. The former summarizes NREL's lessons learned on some of the main issues in power system transition:• Power system planning and operational analysis are discussed in Chapter 1, "Clean Grid Scenarios."• Renewable grid integration challenges and modeling tools at the distribution network level are discussed in Chapter 2, "Distribution Issues and Tools."• Grid reliability and stability challenges and the technologies to address them at the transmissionnetwork level are discussed in Chapter 3, "Grid-Supporting Technologies."• Recent dynamics in electricity demand such as energy efficiency, demand response, and electrification are discussed in Chapter 4, "Demand-Side Developments."• Emerging issues in power market design and market evolution related to the increasing penetration of renewable energy are discussed in Chapter 5, "Power Market Trends."The scope of Clean Grid Vision-A U.S. Perspective is limited to summarizing the main lessons learned and best practices through NREL's power system research in the past 6 years, with a focus on the U.S. power system. It can be compared to and contrasted with SGERI's report that focuses on China's power system.As a summary report, most of the works cited here were conducted during 2015-2020. While some of the assumptions for these studies, especially the ones related to renewable energy and battery technology costs, are outdated, the main conclusions remain salient and offer valuable insights for planning and operating power systems and power markets with high levels of renewable energy.More information on the Clean Grid Vision is available at www.nrel.gov/international/clean-gridvision.html.