What is Grid Code Compliance?
Grid Code Compliance (GCC) refers to the adherence of Aggreko’s electrical power generating equipment to the Harmonised European Standards and specific national connection codes.
Aggreko has achieved this certification for its gas-fuelled electrical generation equipment in several EU countries.
Aggreko has achieved this certification for its gas-fuelled electrical generation equipment in several EU countries.
Regulatory framework and certification
These codes are defined by the Commission Regulation (EU) 2016/631 of 14 April 2016, establishing a network code on requirements for grid connection of generators (RfG). Additionally, the UK's Energy System Operator (ESO) and other local authorities in EU member states have tailored these regulations to meet local needs.
The RfG outlines a unified set of requirements for grid connection compliance, enforced across all ENTSO-E member countries and the UK. Its primary goals are to facilitate ‘Union-wide’ trade in electricity, ensure system security, facilitate integration of renewable energy sources, increase competition, and optimise network and resource efficiency for consumer benefit (ref (EU) 2016/631 (3)).
Technical specifications and categories
The RfG categorises power-generating modules by their voltage level and maximum capacity at the grid connection point, classifying them into Types A, B, C, and D. Each category has specific technical requirements, such as voltage and frequency stability, and, for certain categories, the capability to 'ride-through' network faults, ensuring continued operation even after the power system has been disturbed or a fault is seen somewhere on the system.
As the categories progress from A to D, the requirements become more demanding, requiring higher levels of capability and compliance.
Aggreko’s certification process
Aggreko has undergone testing, certification, and advisory consultancy, to certify its gas generating equipment according to specific national regulations, and we continue to grow this capability across more areas in Europe.
To date, Aggreko has delivered complex grid connected projects across Romania and Ireland, with projects in Germany to be delivered in 2025.
Compliance and applications
Aggreko is the only temporary power provider capable of delivering this level of certification for our Aggreko 1.5 MW gas-fuelled electrical power generation equipment. This scalable solution offers leading fuel efficiency and flexibility on a rental basis.
Grid connected gas opportunities
Aggreko’s certified solutions cater to a variety of applications:
- Baseload power: addressing insufficient generation capacity.
- Peak shaving: managing periods of high demand or low supply, including seasonal shortages.
- Monetising stranded/waste gas: utilising waste gases as fuel to export power to the grid or supplement operations.
These applications serve multiple sectors, including Utilities, Data Centres, Manufacturing, Food & Beverage, and the Oil & Gas and Petrochemical. In some cases, distributed power generation for island or off-grid operations may also require compliance.
Case study: Hybrid solution supports grid and reduces emissions
In 2020, Aggreko delivered its first project meeting the new Harmonised RfG and local requirements in Romania. This successful project paved the way for additional grid-connected projects in the country, addressing various categories of power generation needs. Read more here.
Compliance
Compliance with EU and UK regulations necessitates certification and adherence to regulation requirements. With equipment certification, further case-by-case assessments ensure adherence to additional local or customer-specific specifications.
Aggreko’s flexible solutions support Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations and renewable energy partnerships by displacing diesel, pairing with renewable or Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), incorporating CHP for improved site efficiency, and reducing flare emissions by monetising stranded or waste gases.
*For more information on connecting generation to the electricity networks in the UK, visit the Energy Networks Association: Connecting Generation to the Electricity Networks. https://www.energynetworks.org/industry/connecting-to-the-networks/connecting-generation-to-the-electricity-networks