Authorization
On May 29, 2024, the UWEA hosted a highly informative webinar on the legal and technical aspects of constructing hybrid power plants in Ukraine. The event gathered energy business representatives, government officials, and other stakeholders. Hybrid power plants, which combine various types of RES, for example, “WPP+SPP”, contribute to more stable and predictable “green” electricity production. In addition, the integration of energy storage systems into these plants significantly enhances the operational flexibility and stability of the grid. Given the current crisis in Ukraine's power sector, with significant damage to energy infrastructure and the application of systemic power outages, the development of hybrid RE plants could significantly strengthen and stabilize the national IPS.
“Construction of “green” hybrid power plants is a global trend. In 2022, the global market for hybrid energy systems reached $643.91 million and is projected to grow to approximately $1,225.79 million by 2032 [Precedence Research]. We do hope Ukraine will soon join this market as well,” said Andriy Konechenkov, Chairman of the UWEA Board, opening the webinar.
Vyacheslav Molybog, Project Manager at FICHTNER, presented the theoretical foundations and typical steps for modeling hybrid power plant projects as well as real cases of implemented projects worldwide. He highlighted the benefits of hybrid power plants, stating, “A hybrid power plant increases the capacity factor of grid-connected power, strengthens and supports the electrical grid, ensures its balance, manages day-ahead forecast deviations, offers ancillary services, and reduces construction and operational costs." Molybog highlighted Turkey as a shining example of a nation vigorously advancing in the construction of hybrid power plants, backed by robust and supportive legislation.
A unique aspect of the webinar was Molybog's presentation of a theoretical calculation for “green” hybrid power generation at a specific site in the Odesa region.
Maksym Sysoiev, Partner at Dentons, outlined the legal specifics of hybrid plant projects for different market participants: power producers, active consumers, and consumers. He noted the absence of specific legislative definitions for hybrid systems in Ukraine but stressed the relevance of existing renewable energy regulations. “Currently, the definition of hybrid (combined) renewable energy systems is absent in Ukrainian legislation, although there are regulations for connecting RES with energy storage systems, but without a specific legal definition for such plants. In my view, hybrid power plants should be governed by the same legislation as other renewable energy facilities, namely the Laws of Ukraine 'On the Electricity Market,' 'On Alternative Energy Sources,' 'On Urban Development Regulation,' 'On Environmental Impact Assessment,' and other subordinate acts,” stated Maksym Sysoiev.
Oleksandr Zhyhalyuk, Head of the Transmission System Development Department at NPC Ukrenergo, emphasized the importance of integrating hybrid plants into the Ukrainian IPS: “This webinar marks a promising start for the development of hybrid power generation, which is crucial for Ukraine's energy system. However, it's essential to study international experiences in greater detail. I understand these experiences are not uniform, as each country has specificities. But we are at a pivotal moment where this component needs to be integrated into Ukrainian legislation as well, and it is important to do so in the most effective way.”
The webinar wrapped up with a dynamic and interactive discussion, where speakers and participants eagerly exchanged ideas and insights. This spirited dialogue fostered a sense of collaboration and momentum towards advancing hybrid renewable energy systems in Ukraine.
Home