article · Nature Journal of Emerging Sciences Technologies and Innovations
Integrating variable renewable energy into Nigeria's 330-kV transmission network faces technical challenges due to the system's weak and ageing infrastructure. To understand these limits, a detailed model of the 52-bus Nigerian transmission grid was evaluated using dynamic simulations, load flow, and short-circuit ratio assessments. The model incorporated doubly fed induction generator wind turbines and solar photovoltaic systems as PQ buses, testing them across weak and strong buses with penetration increasing in 3% increments. The analysis identified system strength and stability margins across connection points, showing that the grid can accommodate between 15% and 25% renewable energy penetration without exceeding voltage and frequency limits. Additionally, a seven-point framework was proposed to support the reliable integration and operational management of renewable resources. These findings offer practical guidance for planning grid upgrades and renewable deployment in Nigeria.
Expanding renewable energy is vital for energy access and emissions reduction, but weak electrical grids risk instability when managing variable solar and wind power. By identifying specific capacity limits and vulnerable network nodes, this work helps system operators and policymakers plan renewable expansion safely, avoiding blackouts while working towards cleaner national electricity generation.
This research provides grid planning insights and an operational framework that transmission system operators, utility regulators, and renewable project developers can use to evaluate interconnection feasibility. As a simulation-based study using a modelled 52-bus network, it represents applied research that is ready to inform national grid codes and feasibility studies, though physical deployment would require project-specific testing and validation by power authorities.
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The increasing integration of renewable energy is essential for improving energy security, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and meeting growing electricity demand. However, integrating large-scale variable renewable energy (VRE), particularly wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, into Nigeria's weak and aging transmission network presents significant technical challenges related to voltage stability, frequency regulation, and system strength. This study assesses the impact of large-scale wind and solar PV integration on the stability of the Nigerian 330-kV transmission grid and determines the maximum VRE penetration level that can be accommodated without violating system stability limits. A detailed model of the 52-bus Nigerian transmission network was developed in DigSILENT PowerFactory. Base-case load flow, Short Circuit Ratio (SCR), Site-Dependent Short Circuit Ratio (SDSCR), contingency, and dynamic simulations were performed. DFIG-based wind energy conversion systems and solar PV plants were modelled as PQ buses and integrated into selected weak and strong buses with VRE penetration increased incrementally by 3%. The results identified the weak and strong buses, evaluated the system strength at VRE connection points, and established the corresponding voltage stability margins. The analysis showed that the Nigerian grid can accommodate up to 15-25% VRE penetration while maintaining bus voltages and system frequency within acceptable operating limits. In addition, a seven-point framework is proposed to support the reliable integration and management of VRE in the Nigerian power system. The findings provide practical guidance for renewable energy integration and future grid planning in Nigeria.
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DOI: 10.65752/esbxpw28
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