4 advantages of the Combined Power Plant Mode

Clinton Carter-Brown, head of technical at Enertrag South Africa, emphasises that South Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its energy journey (Image supplied)

The need to execute the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) Transmission Development Plan (TDP) as sees the need to add 1,400 kilometres of transmission lines each year for the next decade.

This transmission development is essential for the connection of new power generation and to provide energy security and the decarbonisation of the South African power system.

A more dynamic approach

A more dynamic approach that includes greater private sector involvement to manage risks and implement innovative financing mechanisms in expanding and strengthening the electrical grid is needed.

For this, we need to bolster key transmission corridors, develop local grids at the sub-transmission level, foster collaboration among developers, optimise the grid, and integrate combined power plants to create a more resilient and efficient energy system.

We also need to develop local collector grids that integrate power from multiple projects and, when combined with energy storage systems, provide dispatchable green energy.

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Leveraging private capital

Leveraging private capital in grid development will strengthen power corridors and create local grids that evolve into combined power plants.

These plants can also include new loads and support deeper decarbonisation through green hydrogen production.

The transition from individually connected renewable facilities to combined power plants will enhance the integration of various generation sources, energy storage, and new technologies, optimising grid use and offering additional services.

Developers in South Africa need to collaborate on shared grid infrastructure, moving beyond traditional competition to collectively finance and build these systems equitably.

Optimising current and future grids to maximise new generation connections through smart market mechanisms is essential.

Advantages of the Combined Power Plant Model

Advantages of the Combined Power Plant Model include:

1. Hybridisation effects Interconnected generators reduce grid capacity needs by basing grid connection capacity on combined and diversified requirements rather than individual plants.

2. Reduced complexity Fewer connection points simplify grid management, lower costs, and streamline ancillary services.

3. Incorporation of additional technologies Energy storage and other technologies can mimic traditional thermal power plant performance, such as on-demand dispatchability.

4. Shared grid assets Projects share infrastructure, leading to more effective collective action.