Project Overview
The developer of a proposed onshore wind farm in northern Scotland required an assessment of potential grid connection options. The site is located in a rural area with limited nearby infrastructure with connection feasibility being the key factor of the success of the project.
The Challenge
Identifying a viable grid connection point involved assessing multiple voltage levels and substations across a large geographic area. The regional network includes constrained circuits and limited capacity for new generation, requiring technical analysis and consideration of operational scenarios.
Our Role
Decerna carried out an independent grid assessment to support the developer’s planning and connection strategy by:
- Reviewing surrounding grid infrastructure, focusing on the most relevant substations and lines.
- Evaluating connection options at different voltage levels, based on capacity, accessibility, and likelihood of approval.
- Recommending a preferred connection strategy based on technical feasibility and grid impact.
Project Outcome
The assessment provided the developer with a report containing a suite of connection options, highlighting benefits and drawbacks of each. While some constraints may arise under specific network conditions, the recommended solution is expected to be feasible without major network reinforcement.
Conclusion
By providing an objective and technically detailed assessment, Decerna enabled the developer to move forward with a specific grid connection strategy. Our work supported early-stage project decisions and prepared the groundwork for future engagement with the network operator.
