Hybrid projects can be installed in 2 different structures, as co-located assets that can operate independently while sharing the same grid connection point, and as fully hybrid where assets are operated jointly by the same entity. The latter will lead to an optimized usage of the grid connection point, explain the authors of the report.
Apart from ensuring a stable power supply even in high-demand periods, scaling up hybrid power projects can also help industries reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and stabilize energy costs against volatile energy markets.
Recommendations
The SPE report writers believe regulatory bottlenecks need to be addressed to tap their full potential in the EU. One of the foremost recommendations is for the EU and its Member States to recognize hybrid solar systems as key to the bloc’s energy security, competitiveness and decarbonization goals. This model needs to be integrated into grid planning, flexibility strategies and funding mechanisms.
Grid connection procedures for hybrid PV must be accelerated by regulators and grid operators. They should publish grid hosting capacity maps to improve transparency and facilitate co-located setups at the same connection point, taking a cue from Denmark and Australia. The Member States will also need to accelerate permitting for hybrid PV with simpler approvals, standardized one-stop-shop systems, etc.
Additionally, the report writers recommend the bloc to come out with support schemes to adapt to hybrid PV projects and enable these to participate in traditional renewable energy auctions without distorting the market.
Hybrid renewable energy projects should also be able to receive guarantees of origin (Fos) for all electricity they generate, irrespective of whether it is fed into the grid or stored for later use.
Finally, the SPE report wants administrators to adapt grid tariffs to address issues like double charging for storage. Co-located storage systems should be exempted from such tariffs to create fairer market conditions and support the integration of renewable energy technologies.
The complete SPE report can be downloaded for free on its website.
