The Return of Voltage Problems in the Spanish Electrical System
The specter of the great blackout has returned: the Spanish electrical system is facing voltage problems . Serious problems, indeed. So serious that Red Eléctrica has had to ask for permission to take action on the matter.
It goes without saying, but uncertainty spread like wildfire. Six months after the great blackout, Spain is experiencing a small déjà vu . Are there reasons to be alert?
What Has Happened?
Electrical Network just notified the CNMC that it has observed sudden variations in voltage within the peninsular system over the past couple of weeks. The organization explained that these fluctuations could compromise the security of supply , necessitating urgent measures to address the issue.
This includes temporarily modifying various operating procedures to stabilize the system while pinpointing the underlying problems.
What Do These Modifications Consist Of?
The proposals involve allowing technical adjustments to be implemented during daily programming. The operator will also have more flexibility to take quick actions if a risk of instability arises, even before the operating day begins. Additionally, there will be tighter control of the automatic instantaneous balance mechanism and enhanced reactive voltage control .
In summary, what has been reported is an express adjustment of the country’s electrical operations to mitigate the recorded voltage fluctuations, to be executed in just five days.
The Big Question Is “Now?”
As Javier Blas pointed out, for months, the Spanish electricity grid operator and the government have been postponing the country’s electrical issues. Now, suddenly, a series of urgent measures are required.
Red Eléctrica’s Response
Given the concern generated by this request, the operator had to clarify that there has been “no mention of a risk of imminent or widespread blackout.” They added that the voltage variations “have not posed a supply risk because they have remained within permissible limits.”
However, the truth is that no one is too calm . As Blas noted, “The urgent request adds an additional $1 billion cost for Spanish consumers, as the grid operator has been running the system in a ‘boosted mode’ since April 29, effectively relying more on gas-fired power plants while reducing contributions from solar and wind sources.”
This situation raises serious concerns. If a range of measures are needed under these circumstances, it indicates that an underlying problem exists. Or, at the very least, it seems that the stress signals within the system are evident; a mere collection of temporary fixes may not be the comprehensive solution required.
Image | Anton Dmitriev
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