Hazards of wind power

A recent grid problem in Texas illustrates the potential shortfalls of wind power. The grid problem unfolded on Feb. 26 after a cold front blowing through West Texas temporarily lifted wind production.

When it subsided, wind speeds dropped and the productivity of wind turbines dropped by 80% from 1,700 to 300 megawatts. The problem was exacerbated by energy demand that was greater than forecast and by lower availability of some fossil-fuel units. The result was an electricity shortfall.

Shortages do more than degrade reliability; they push up prices. Wholesale power prices surged to $1,055 a megawatt hour in West Texas on Feb. 26, versus $299 elsewhere in the state.

To get the system back in balance, the grid operator declared an emergency and paid big customers to temporarily curtail electricity use. The problem illustrated the need for better wind forecasting tools.

Currently, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, operator of the state’s high-voltage transmission system, accepts estimates of energy generators without second-guessing their accuracy. That is about to change. Texas is working on a method integrate more robust wind forecasts to make sure it doesn’t rely on resources that won’t materialize.

Source: WSJ, 06/03/08