Landsnet, the Icelandic TSO (Transmission System Operator), maintains and operates the transmission system in Iceland. The system is isolated from other transmission systems, supplying electric power to the Icelandic society. Approximately 80% of the load is steady power intensive customers (aluminium smelters, ferrosilicium plants and data centers). The generated energy is entirely renewable, 75% hydro based and 25% utilising geothermal power. The present transmission system is fully exploited, thus not capable of handling proposed large-scale integration of wind power and associated increase in consumption (e.g. electrolysers). Therefore, Landsnet started a research project with the goal to provide a roadmap towards a „target grid“ for 2050+. The project will, as well, provide guidance for a safe and firm integration of wind power into an isolated and weak transmission grid and highlight the necessary requirements for feasibility studies. In Phase I a tool has been developed for assessing the impact of wind variability on the transmission system which allows identification of stress points, assessment of variability impacts on individual lines and transformers, and provides a statistical and visual basis for planning mitigation measures. The results from Phase I will provide valuable input to proceed to Phase II for further modelling and simulations.

Phase II is the main system modelling and simulation part of the project. Based on the results from Phase I, wind integration scenarios will be defined and possible grid solutions modelled and simulated. The solutions will comprise grid enhancements (new grid components and reinforcements, increased meshing), new technology (STATCOMs, synchrocondensers, storage, grid-forming converters etc.), market solutions (e.g. flexible consumption) etc.