What is a non-mandatory specification for grid-forming inverters?

When integrated into the grid code, this will be a non-mandatory specification that outlines technical requirements for potentially installed grid-forming inverters, but does not generally require the functionality itself (National Grid ESO, n.d.).

Do inverter-based generators need grid-forming capability?

As of 2021, grid-forming capability is not required from inverter-based generators in any grid code. Great Britain’s National Grid ESO undertook a first step in this direction by publishing first drafts of a grid code specification for grid-forming inverters in 2020.

Should international equipment standards and grid codes be harmonised?

Co-ordination between international equipment standards and grid codes continues to be an important point. When these conflict, the applicable standard or grid code requirement that should prevail needs to be decided on a case-by-case basis.

What is the difference between international grid codes and national grid codes?

International interconnection standards such as IEEE 1547 and IEEE P.2800 on the other hand present full sets of grid code requirements and can therefore either fulfil the function of regional grid codes or be used as national grid codes directly.

Which standards should be used for grid regulation?

Where possible and applicable, the requirements themselves should be drawn from international standards such as the latest editions of EN 50549 or IEEE 1547. When looking at regulation, the European grid codes are probably the best developed.

Are national grid codes necessary?

National grid codes, or at least nationally customised implementation of international or regional grid codes, will always be necessary, as regulation applicable to larger areas cannot capture the specific characteristics of each market and power system in full detail without becoming overly bulky and prescriptive.