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Topic

Impacts of Curtailment Costs on Optimal Generation and Storage Capacity

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Date & location

• Thursday, January 9, 2025

• 1:00 P.M.

• Engineering Office Wing

• Room 430

Reviewers

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Andrew Rowe, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria (Co-Supervisor)

• Dr. Peter Wild, Department of Mechanical Engineering, UVic (Co-Supervisor) 

External Examiner

• Dr. Phalguni Mukhopadhyaya, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Victoria 

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Anthony Quas, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, UVic 

Abstract

This study examines the effects of curtailment costs on cost-minimized energy capacity for Metro Vancouver, focusing on electrification and Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) pathways. Using Calliope, we assess the impact of curtailment costs on storage capacity, renewable generation, and system costs. Results show that curtailment costs significantly affect the electrification pathway, driving increased battery storage activity and selective deployment of renewable generation to limit curtailment. In contrast, the RNG pathway adjusts only gas storage capacity in response to curtailment costs, relying solely on wind technology as its Variable Renewable Energy source without the need of an electric storage. These findings highlight the importance of tailored curtailment cost strategies for efficient renewable integration, enhancing resilience and cost-effectiveness across energy transition pathways.