Vattenfall Eldistribution Pioneers Automated Flexibility Solution for Enhanced Solar Integration
Vattenfall Eldistribution has successfully piloted an innovative solution that leverages flexibility and automated activation to connect more solar power to the grid, even when capacity is limited or before network upgrades are completed. This breakthrough promises to accelerate the integration of renewable energy sources and alleviate grid congestion.
Pilot Project Details
In 2023, Vattenfall Eldistribution connected a solar park near Västerås to the grid with an initial utilized capacity of 15 MW. Recognizing that the solar park’s output slightly exceeded the existing grid’s capacity, a supplementary agreement was established to enable flexible grid usage pending further network reinforcements. A Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) system was installed to measure the line’s capacity in real-time based on current weather conditions.
Initially, Vattenfall Eldistribution’s control center had to manually limit the power input from the solar park on sunny days to prevent overloads. This required constant monitoring and intervention.
Automated Flexibility: A Game Changer
During the spring and summer, Vattenfall Eldistribution tested a new solution that combines existing technology with a newly developed algorithm. This algorithm has been integrated into the control center’s monitoring and control system, enabling automated activation. This automation relieves the burden on grid operators and maximizes the availability of solar power.
The automated activation system for the solar park was implemented in June 2025 after a trial period with subsequent adjustments. Since then, it has operated with optimal availability for the customer throughout July.
“Flexibility solutions make it possible to connect customers faster despite network congestion, meaning that our customers can start their production earlier,” says Jonas Andersson, Head of Plant Development and responsible for flexibility at Vattenfall Eldistribution. He emphasizes how the company’s flexibility strategy and solutions contribute to faster fossil-free energy production.
Andersson further elaborates:
“The transition involves, among other things, enabling and connecting more renewable electricity production in the electricity grids, something that our flexibility strategy clearly supports. Success requires innovation, courage, and decisiveness, which we have managed to combine successfully in this project. Now we hope to apply the solution to more customers, while continuing to develop new ideas and solutions that contribute to a fossil-free society and satisfied customers.”
Future Applications and Expansion
This solution is particularly well-suited for addressing certain congestion issues in the regional grid. Several solar parks seeking earlier grid connections and willing to adapt their grid usage have expressed interest in similar solutions. Vattenfall Eldistribution is currently exploring how to apply the solution more broadly.
Vattenfall Eldistribution’s Role
Vattenfall Eldistribution distributes electricity to over 900,000 businesses and individuals through an electricity grid that meets the needs of network capacity as well as electricity and delivery quality. The company is building the electricity grid of the future and enabling the energy transition for a fossil-free society.
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