The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) has introduced changes to better utilize New York State's existing wind resources. The enhancements help accommodate the variable nature of wind-powered generation with a centralized forecasting system.
"A primary issue in the industry has been with forecasting the availability and timing of wind-powered generation. As the grid operator, we constantly adjust all generation supplies to meet the changing demand for electricity in real time," explained Steve Whitley, NYISO President and CEO. "If the anticipated level of wind generation changes, then other adjustments must be made on the system to accommodate those changes."
The NYISO contracted with AWS Truewind, of Colonie, N.Y., to provide the NYISO with wind power forecasts for each wind power project, based on meteorological data and historical operating characteristics of the wind power projects. The data is fed directly into the NYISO operational systems that determine the balance of load and generation.
The NYISO is one of the first ISO/RTOs in the country to implement such a system. This forecasting method is considered "best practice" in the industry worldwide. The NYISO is supporting New York State's leadership role in renewable energy by actively getting systems ready for wind development and integration.