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The Optimal Integration of Virtual Power Plants for the South African National Grid Based on an Energy Mix as per the Integrated Resource Plan 2019: A Review

Author

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  • Melissa-Jade Williams

    (Department of Nuclear Power Plant Engineering, KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS), Ulsan 45014, Republic of Korea)

  • Choong-Koo Chang

    (Department of Nuclear Power Plant Engineering, KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS), Ulsan 45014, Republic of Korea)

Abstract

The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2019 outlines South Africa’s goal of achieving a diverse and sustainable energy mix. To achieve this, innovative methods must be found to integrate renewable energy sources while preserving grid stability. Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), which combine dispersed energy resources like solar photovoltaic (PV), wind, and battery storage into a single, intelligent system, are one such approach. This study provides a thorough analysis of the best way to integrate VPPs into South Africa’s national grid, highlighting the associated operational, regulatory, and technological challenges. In order to optimize VPP efficiency, this research looks at a number of key areas, such as enhanced renewable energy forecasting, energy management systems (EMSs), and distributed energy resource (DER) integration. Additionally, it examines how VPPs help demand-side management, reduce intermittency in renewable energy sources, and improve grid flexibility. In addition, this paper analyzes the market and regulatory structures required to permit VPP participation in energy markets and guarantee a smooth transition to a decentralized energy environment. This paper highlights the crucial role VPPs could play in reaching the nation’s renewable energy targets, lowering dependency on fossil fuels, and enhancing energy access. Through this review, this paper offers insights into the technological viability and strategic benefits of VPP implementation in South Africa. The findings highlight that for VPPs to successfully integrate into South Africa’s energy landscape, it will be necessary to overcome technological, regulatory, and market-related barriers.

Suggested Citation

  • Melissa-Jade Williams & Choong-Koo Chang, 2024. "The Optimal Integration of Virtual Power Plants for the South African National Grid Based on an Energy Mix as per the Integrated Resource Plan 2019: A Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(24), pages 1-35, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:24:p:6489-:d:1550821
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jiaqi Liu & Hongji Hu & Samson S. Yu & Hieu Trinh, 2023. "Virtual Power Plant with Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Storage Systems for Sustainable Power Grid-Formation, Control Techniques and Demand Response," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(9), pages 1-28, April.
    2. Juan C. Sarmiento-Vintimilla & Esther Torres & Dunixe Marene Larruskain & María José Pérez-Molina, 2022. "Applications, Operational Architectures and Development of Virtual Power Plants as a Strategy to Facilitate the Integration of Distributed Energy Resources," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-28, January.
    3. Dai, Haifeng & Jiang, Bo & Hu, Xiaosong & Lin, Xianke & Wei, Xuezhe & Pecht, Michael, 2021. "Advanced battery management strategies for a sustainable energy future: Multilayer design concepts and research trends," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 138(C).
    4. Naval, Natalia & Yusta, Jose M., 2021. "Virtual power plant models and electricity markets - A review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 149(C).
    5. Zia, Muhammad Fahad & Elbouchikhi, Elhoussin & Benbouzid, Mohamed, 2018. "Microgrids energy management systems: A critical review on methods, solutions, and prospects," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 222(C), pages 1033-1055.
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    Cited by:

    1. Siwei Zheng & Guoping Huang & Zhaoxu Luo, 2025. "Coordinated Control Strategies for Polymorphic Energy in Hydrogen-Integrated Virtual Power Plants Under the Goal of a Low-Carbon Economy," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(6), pages 1-19, March.

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