Optimal power flow and operating policies for autonomous power systems with high RES penetration

Optimal power flow (OPF) simulations are used to study the effects of large-scale renewable energy installations implemented on an autonomous power system. The economic effects are analyzed under several different conditions and operating scenarios. Crete´s power system with ultra high level of RES penetration is simulated and investigated using commercial software. The total fuel and emissions costs, and the cost of renewable energy, are analyzed. The net cost savings and unit cost savings provided by energy storage are presented. Finally, a contingencies analysis is carried out to estimate the impact of the previous increased penetration levels.