Renewable energy is becoming an increasing and significant source of electric generation. The largest share of renewable energy growth comes from wind and solar technologies, both of which are known as variable energy resources (VERs) that have variable dispatch patterns dependent on weather conditions and sunlight. This paper examines the issues associated with integrating variable generation in the power system over the 10-20 year planning horizon. The paper draws upon the research of recent studies that have modeled the Western Interconnection under high levels of renewable energy and explored steps to facilitate more efficient operations. These findings provide the basis for a series of options that policymakers and regulators may consider for the electric sector.
This work was accomplished through a Idaho-WIEB State Energy Planning (SEP) project funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, to foster regional and state energy planning in the West and identify opportunities for multi-state or region-wide collaborations to address emerging energy issues.