Electric freight trains as distributed energy resources supporting frequency stability in power systems

Abstract

The generation structure in the European power systems is continuously changing towards an increasing share of non‐synchronous energy sources. This leads to significant challenges in maintaining frequency stability due to declining system inertia. In this study, a novel concept of demand response very fast active power control (DR VFAPC) capability using in a direct way the braking energy in electric trainsets being in motion is presented. In order to assess the potential to ensure DR VFAPC capability by freight railway carriers and examine the impact of such service on frequency dynamics, a simplified mathematical model of Polish power system representing the frequency regulation process has been developed. The impact of basic characteristics of the freight train transport, as well as the selected power system parameters on the DR VFAPC operation, has been studied. In conclusion, current technical constraints of implementing the presented idea and future works have been discussed.