Increasing Renewable Energy Penetration in Isolated Grids Using a Flywheel Energy Storage System

This paper demonstrates that the introduction of a Flywheel Energy Storage System (FESS) into a isolated hybrid grid increases the renewable energy penetration. The isolated power system studied includes diesel and hydro generators and wind turbines. The simulated and measured results clearly show the positive influence of the energy storage on the system performance. The system has been operating with the FESS for 1 year and has demonstrated improvements in renewable energy penetration, reduced diesel fuel usage, and improved power system stability and power quality.