Faroe Islands microgrids deutschland

How does a microgrid work in the Faroe Islands?

The residents of the Faroe Islands have set up their own microgrid. A microgrid is an autonomous local network of distributed power sources and loads. It can operate either independently (island mode) or connected to the main power grid. When linked to the main power grid, it can supply or receive power.

Where are the Faroe Islands located?

The Faroe Islands are situated in the North Atlantic Ocean approximately halfway between Norway and Iceland. They form an autonomous administrative district within the Kingdom of Denmark. Due to their isolated location, the Faroe Islands have never been connected to the mainland power grid. Their main source of energy is imported oil.

How much wind energy does the Faroe Islands have?

The Faroe Islands are ‘blessed’ with world record wind energy. In many locations average wind speed is above 10 m/s and wind turbines will typically produce energy with around 50% capacity factor. Albeit fluctuating, the average wind energy has more than double magnitude in winter (wind speeds mainly 10-15 m/s) compared to summer (5-10 m/s).

How does a virtual power plant work in the Faroe Islands?

In November 2012 the Faroe Islands became the first place in the world where a virtual power plant was used to recreate balance in an island power system by decoupling large industrial units in less than a second from the main power system, thereby avoiding blackouts.