International Grid Code Comparison at a Glance Germanischer Lloyd WindEnergy prepares overview of grid codes

The grid codes for wind turbines differ from one country to another. In Germany alone, there are five sets of regulations, which are constantly added to and revised. The situation is similar in Anglo-Saxon countries. The wind energy division (GL Wind) of Germanischer Lloyd is now offering a comprehensive overview of the grid codes in the various countries applicable for manufacturers and operators. The "International Grid Code Comparison (IGCC)" records all the access rules of European and also non-European countries and presents an overview of the different requirements set by the system operators. The new service from GL Wind includes both a detailed list of the conditions that apply within the countries selected by the customer along with optional monthly updates.

Manufacturers of wind turbines are constantly challenged to adapt the design of their turbines in line with the latest requirements of network operators. This calls for a high level of research effort in the respective sales markets. Changes in the grid access rules require that the parameters applicable for wind turbines be configured in a way that conforms with the regulations. These must be taken into account in new developments and satisfied by means of innovative solutions. They then need to be certified in order to be accepted by the system operators.

GL Wind offers its customers a list that comprises a summary of the grid codes relevant for wind turbines. Due to their geographical validity, as a rule these relate to site specific conditions governed by the particular location and comprise conditions for the connection of wind turbines.

All the grid connection conditions are analysed and the parameters relevant for wind energy extracted so as to permit a direct comparison between all the internationally available grid codes.

For manufacturers, the new service provides a simple means of keeping track of the latest guidelines issued by system operators in a clearly structured form.