Summary:
The shift towards non-synchronous generation reduces system inertia, creating operational challenges in power systems worldwide. This inertia challenge depends on the synchronous grid size, generation mix, and the existing portfolio of services procured by the system operators. This study examines how five European countries from different synchronous areas address these challenges, focusing on the market-based procurement of inertia-related services. We provide a theoretical background on why stability service markets are challenging to design due to the interplay between different services and their costs. Further, we use a theoretical market framework to analyze the market design elements and to see how aligned they are with the evolving needs of the power system. Our findings stress the importance of investment incentives for low-carbon technologies and proactive market designs to meet evolving stability needs, offering guidance for power systems integrating a high share of renewables.
Spanish layman's summary:
Este artículo analiza cómo cinco países europeos abordan los desafíos de baja inercia mediante la contratación en el mercado de servicios de estabilidad y las complejidades en el diseño de dichos mercados.
English layman's summary:
Keywords: Inertia; Frequency ancillary services; Frequency stability service; Electricity markets; Non-synchronous generation
JCR Impact Factor and WoS quartile: 3,800 - Q2 (2023)
DOI reference:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jup.2025.101938
Published on paper: August 2025.
Published on-line: April 2025.
Citation:
S. Bindu, L. Sigrist, J.P. Chaves, Frequency stability services to compensate for low inertia in renewable-dominated power systems. Utilities Policy. Vol. 95, pp. 101938-1 - 101938-14, August 2025. [Online: April 2025]
