Transmission system operators in Europe and nongovernmental organizations there have formed the Renewables-Grid-Initiative (RGI). It will call for a mandate for energy regulators to spur development of a European grid that can transmit power from wind farms and other renewable generators. “The Renewables-Grid Initiative sets the ground for speeding investments in grid infrastructure, to integrate renewable energy sources wherever produced, and whenever they become available, in full recognition of environmental concerns,” Antonella Battaglini, Senior Scientist at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.
Some European companies insist that new strategic interconnections are needed to transmit electricity from remote locations to dispersed customers. Several renewable-energy sources are needed to hit targets of 20% renewable energy by 2020. About 35% of which will be electricity. A significant increase of wind-generated electricity into the European grid will come from upgrading transmission capacity.
The group says it is necessary to combine local and decentralized renewable supplies as well as solar and large-scale offshore wind. In addition, the costs of high-voltage dc and ac lines will be significant. Smart-grid equipment will make best use of the power. RGI says developing a smart grid is essential for renewable energy because it will come from many locations.
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