AEMO preps for power shift
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AEMO says it is working to secure the power grid amid Australia’s renewable energy boom.
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has launched its Transition Plan for System Security, mapping out strategies to keep Australia’s National Electricity Market (NEM) stable as it embraces renewable energy.
The plan outlines how AEMO will maintain system security while complementing existing obligations and industry efforts.
“The Transition Plan for System Security presents AEMO’s plan for managing system security through the transition to a renewables-dominated system as the available sources of supporting technology continue to evolve,” said Chris Davies, AEMO’s Group Manager - Future Energy Systems.
The report tackles challenges like managing synchronous generator retirements and minimum system load events, where high rooftop solar output coincides with reduced grid demand.
It also highlights new security services and trials of cutting-edge technologies to ensure the system operates within technical limits.
“With renewables already supplying up to 75% of demand at times, and one-third of today’s coal, gas, and diesel plants set to retire within the next decade, collaborative planning is more important than ever,” Davies said.
The plan divides actions into three timeframes.
Horizon 1 focuses on short-term measures using current assets, Horizon 2 prepares for medium-term transitions, and Horizon 3 explores long-term solutions to adapt to advancing technologies.
AEMO says the Transition Plan will evolve annually, integrating feedback and ongoing lessons. It complements reports on system strength, inertia, and distributed resources, aiming to support secure, low-cost electricity supply.
