Abstract
The growing challenges of climate change and the urgent need to reduce carbonemissions make Germany’s Energy Transition a crucial step in addressing these global
issues. Climate change, driven largely by rising CO₂ levels, demands a swift shift to
renewable energy to minimise its impact on the environment and society. At the same
time, the gradual phase-out of conventional power plants presents significant
challenges for the electricity grid, especially in terms of expanding the network and
ensuring its reliability.
This study explores the critical role of hydropower plants in stabilizing the energy
system. In addition to generating renewable energy, hydropower plants are highly
adaptable and can play a vital role in ensuring system security by providing reactive
power. The research identifies a theoretical potential of 409 MVar inductive and
252 MVar capacitive reactive power in Bavaria’s medium-voltage grids. This highlights
the importance of hydropower in addressing the increasing demand for grid stability as
conventional power plants are retired.
To fully utilise this potential, the study emphasises the need for technical upgrades and
changes in regulations. It focuses on challenges related to voltage stability and the
control of reactive power, where hydropower’s stability and controllability offer clear
advantages. As renewable energy sources like solar and wind become more
prominent, their intermittent nature makes the need for reliable grid stabilisation even
more pressing.
The research also examines the economic and operational aspects of integrating
hydropower into reactive power management. It calls for policies and incentives to
encourage HPP operators to enhance their capabilities. Modernising equipment and
upgrading grid infrastructure are identified as essential steps to align hydropower’s
potential with the demands of a renewable energy-focused grid. By balancing technical
and economic factors, hydropower can become a cornerstone of a sustainable and
decentralised energy system.
The findings underscore the importance of collaboration among policymakers, grid
operators, and energy producers. Creating a supportive environment for hydropower’s
expanded role is essential to achieving the goals of the Energy Transition. This study
not only addresses the immediate challenges but also offers solutions that can be
adapted to other regions facing similar energy transformation needs.
In conclusion, integrating hydropower into reactive power management is a
transformative opportunity to enhance the resilience and efficiency of Germany’s
electricity grid. The research highlights the importance of aligning technical, regulatory,
and economic strategies to fully realize hydropower’s potential. This alignment is key
to ensuring the success of the Energy Transition, maintaining grid stability, and
reinforcing Germany’s leadership in renewable energy development.
| Date of Award | 2025 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Juergen Spitznagel (Director of Studies (First Supervisor)) & Lijun Tang (Director of Studies (First Supervisor)) |