Advancing grid stability by developing an energy resilience framework
Mashele,Lungile Thopil,George Oerlemans,Leon
Mashele,Lungile
Thopil,George
Oerlemans,Leon
Abstract
Resilience in energy systems refers to the ability of the energy system to withstand, adapt to, and recover from disruptions while maintaining essential functions. This ability is crucial for integrating variable renewable energy (VRE) sources, such as solar and wind power, into existing grids. Scholars categorized resilience into two types: engineering and ecological resilience. Engineering resilience focuses on the system's ability to return to its original state after a disturbance, emphasizing rapid recovery and stability. Complementary, ecological resilience highlights the system's capacity to adapt and transform in response to disturbances, ensuring long-term sustainability and robustness. The theory of resilience provides a general framework for understanding how systems absorb shocks and reorganize while changing. This theory has been expanded to include energy systems, emphasizing the need for adaptability and learning from disruptions to enhance future resilience. The criteria for energy resilience encompass several key elements. These elements need to be considered when designing a framework for a stable and resilient energy system. Integration of renewables involves strategically incorporating variable renewable energy sources into the grid to enhance resilience and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Grid flexibility is crucial for adapting to fluctuations in energy supply and demand, achieved through advanced technologies like smart grids and energy storage systems. Accurate forecasting and predictive analytics enable grid operators to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions, ensuring a reliable energy supply. Redundancy and diversification involve building multiple energy sources and backup systems to ensure continuous operation during disruptions. Regulatory and policy support is vital for promoting resilient technology adoption and ensuring grid resilience through incentives and streamlined permitting processes. Community and stakeholder engagement fosters transparency, cooperation, and local support, contributing to a resilient energy system that benefits all. Economic viability evaluates the cost-effectiveness of resilience measures, ensuring long-term financial sustainability. Lastly, environmental sustainability prioritizes minimizing the ecological impact of energy infrastructure, promoting resource conservation, and supporting sustainable development practices By incorporating these elements, the proposed energy resilience framework aims to guide policymakers, energy planners, and stakeholders in developing robust and adaptable energy systems. This framework contributes to the body of knowledge that may enable energy systems to withstand and recover from disruptions while adapting to future challenges, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and resilient energy future.
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Date
2025-10-14
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Research Projects
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Citation
Mashele, L, Thopil, G & Oerlemans, L 2025, 'Advancing grid stability by developing an energy resilience framework', Paper presented at 12th CIGRE Southern African Regional Conference, Pretoria, South Africa, 14/10/25 - 18/10/25.
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info:eu-repo/semantics/restrictedAccess