Great Britain has committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The sector supplying energy is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. To meet statuary requirements, National Grid ESO is exploring the increased use of non-dispatchable renewable energy sources and the phasing out of inertia-providing synchronous generators.
The lack of synchronous machinery could destabilise the grid, thus preserving some capacity is crucial. Utilising synchronous generators powered by biomass could offer a remedy; providing necessary inertia without the heavy greenhouse gas emissions associated with fossil fuel synchronous generators like coal, oil, and natural gas.
Energy storage systems can time-shift electricity generation and demand to balance production and consumption. Integrating biomass generators with energy storage enhances efficiency and reliability. The proliferation of renewables increases the frequency of generator cycling, which can double operational costs. Onsite energy storage mitigates this need, reducing expenses, wear and tear, and additional CO2 emissions. Using energy storage for ancillary services or market arbitrage also reduces the need for biomass generator ramping.
This thesis explores arbitrage and Firm Frequency Response products that biomass and energy storage combined can buy and sell. It confirms the benefits of investing in an energy storage, highlighting profitability from Firm Frequency Response and resilience against changes in the electricity system. Novel methodologies for optimal energy storage operation without foresight are introduced using linear programming and reinforcement learning for decision-making.
