ISO perspective and experience with integrating wind power forecasts into operations

A key requirement of electric system operation is the ability of system operators to manage all types of variability and uncertainty. Integrating large-scale wind power into electric system operation increases variability and uncertainty that can impact supply and demand balance performance requirements. Many Independent System Operators (ISOs) are in the process of addressing these challenges. The Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) developed a Market and Operational Framework for Wind Integration (MOF) and is currently investigating ways to improve the day ahead, hour ahead and intra-hour time period wind forecasts and identify the tools required to integrate the forecast into market operations. The Midwest ISO has been holding stakeholder workshops regarding wind integration and is bringing a series of motions to enhance wind integration efforts to various stakeholder groups. The California ISO has recently completed a forecasting request for bid to ensure it is receiving the most accurate forecast at a competitive price. The ISO is now investigating ways to improve the forecast for the day ahead, hour ahead and intra-hour time period along with identifying the proper tools to integrate the forecast into the market operations.