Role of grid-enhancing technologies in the transition to a renewables-dominated power system

The global push for decarbonisation is rapidly increasing renewable energy integration, yet this presents immediate challenges: network congestion and renewable curtailment. Grid-enhancing technologies (GETs) such as dynamic line ratings (DLR), distributed static series compensators (DSSC), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) offer crucial short-term relief until long-term grid upgrades are implemented. This paper presents a combined unit commitment and optimal power flow model that integrates DLR, DSSCs, and BESS options, applied to a detailed case study of the future Irish power system. The main objective is to analyse how the grid can evolve towards higher renewable penetration, and the role of GETs in mitigating congestion and enhancing system performance. The presented results illustrate the potential significance of GETs for this, demonstrating their ability to improve operational efficiency, and pave the way for effective strategies to reduce network congestion and minimise renewable curtailment in future power systems.