Introduction to the South African Renewable Energy Grid Code version 2.9 requirements (Part II — Grid code technical requirements)

Abstract

Under-frequency load shedding, rising electricity tariffs, environmental concerns and delays in constructing new power stations had plunged South Africa into darkness with the need for load shedding. Renewable energy technologies with its short lead times have become an attractive alternative for the country and hence led to the South African Government calling upon the country to explore renewable energy generation options. Subsequently, the Integrated Resource Plan 2010 set a target of 17800 MW (equivalent to 42%) of new electricity generation capacity to be derived from renewable energy sources. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program was then introduced with the aim of procuring Independent Power Producers clean renewable energy generation. The South African Renewable Energy Grid Code was then developed in 2010 to assist with these new Renewable Power Plants connecting onto the grid. The purpose of this paper is to provide details into the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program, the South African Renewable Energy Grid Code requirements and provide practical testing methods to carry out grid code compliance in accordance with the code.