What is a virtual power plant?

A virtual power plant is a system of distributed energy resources—like rooftop solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, and smart water heaters—that work together to balance energy supply and demand on a large scale. They are usually run by local utility companies who oversee this balancing act.

What is a virtual power plant (VPP)?

The “virtual” nature of VPPs comes from its lack of a central physical facility, like a traditional coal or gas plant. By generating electricity and balancing the energy load, the aggregated batteries and solar panels provide many of the functions of conventional power plants. They also have unique advantages.

Can virtual power plants be integrated into German system operation?

Ziegler C, Richter A, Hauer I, Wolter M (2018) Technical integration of virtual power plants enhanced by energy storages into German system operation with regard to following the schedule in intra-day. In: 2018 53rd international universities power engineering conference (UPEC). pp 1–6

Does a hybrid storage-wind virtual power plant participate in the electricity markets?

Alahyari A, Ehsan M, Mousavizadeh M (2019) A hybrid storage-wind virtual power plant (VPP) participation in the electricity markets: a self-scheduling optimization considering price, renewable generation, and electric vehicles uncertainties.

Are virtual power plants a solution to aging transmission systems?

And because virtual power plants are located where electricity is consumed, they’ll ease the burden on aging transmission systems that have struggled to add new lines. Virtual power plants scramble the roles of electricity producers and consumers.

Can virtual power plants balance supply and demand?

Most new supply is coming from wind and solar farms, whose output varies with the weather. That’s left power companies seeking new ways to balance supply and demand. One option they’re turning to is virtual power plants. These aren’t massive facilities generating electricity at a single site.