Variable Renewable Energy integration and the balancing challenge: Flexibility assessment in Belgium

The world is facing a historical increase in energy demand and energy consumption. Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) sources are considered as a solution to both environmental issues and energy demand, even though they present high variability and low predictability. Variability and uncertainty are familiar aspects of all power systems. However, the increase of the share of renewable sources leads to new needs in terms of flexible resources. These resources can be provided by four different means: 1. Dispatchable power plants (i.e. with ramp up and ramp down capabilities) 2. Storage systems, mainly in the form of pumping stations. 3. Grid interconnections between countries 4. Demand side management. The present work focuses on the Belgian transmission grid. In order to assess its flexibility, both the technical flexible resource available and the flexibility requirement are evaluated in the considered area and the Present Variable Renewable Energy penetration Potential is calculated