The growth of utility-scale solar power plants in the National Electricity Market (NEM) is changing how energy is produced and delivered. That said, connecting these projects to the grid requires careful planning and strict compliance with technical and regulatory standards. 

Steady-state and dynamic studies are used to evaluate how a solar plant interacts with the grid under normal conditions and during disturbances. Without these studies, projects risk delays, costly redesigns, or even rejection by AEMO.

How Grid Connection Studies Shape Network Compliance

Grid connection studies are divided into two main categories: steady-state studies and dynamic studies. Steady-state studies examine how the plant performs under normal operating conditions, while dynamic studies simulate its behaviour during and after network disturbances. 

Together, they ensure that new generation projects meet performance standards, avoid compromising system stability, and satisfy the technical requirements for registration and commissioning.

Compliance occurs in two stages:

  • R0 (Preliminary Stage): Initial engagement with the NSP and AEMO before formal GPS submission. This stage involves project scoping, preliminary modelling, and feasibility-level studies. R0 helps developers identify risks early, align expectations with the NSP, and reduce the chance of costly design changes later.
  • R1 (Design Stage): Includes submission of Generator Performance Standards (GPS), model validation, and steady-state/dynamic simulation results.
  • R2 (Commissioning Stage): Involves hold point testing, site validation, and final GPS confirmation.

 Presenting compliance as numbered stages makes requirements clearer for developers. Moreover, these stages require input from an experienced electrical engineering consultant. ElectraGlobe guides developers through complex simulations, model tuning, and communication with AEMO and NSPs.

Steady-State Studies for Grid Connection

Steady-state studies assess how a proposed utility-scale solar project performs under normal operating conditions. They include load flow analysis to examine power flows and thermal loading, and short circuit studies to evaluate fault levels and their impact on protection systems. These studies also check voltage regulation and reactive power capability.

Moreover, engineers use tools like Power System Simulator for Engineering (PSSE) to simulate various network conditions and confirm that the design meets AEMO’s technical requirements. These studies are a core part of the R0 and R1 submission. They help determine key design elements such as transformer ratings, cable sizes, and the need for reactive power support equipment.

Dynamic Studies and Grid Stability

Dynamic studies are essential for evaluating the behaviour of the solar power plant during abnormal events, such as faults, load shedding, or generator outages. 

These simulations determine whether the plant can:

  • Ride through faults without disconnecting (Fault Ride Through or FRT capability)
  • Maintain synchronism and frequency stability
  • Respond effectively to changes in system frequency or voltage

With regards to these studies, they typically require PSSE and  (PSCAD) simulation platforms. PSCAD is used for electromagnetic transient (EMT) modelling, providing detailed insights into inverter control systems and interactions between the solar PV inverter and the grid. This level of fidelity is needed in verifying compliance with NER Schedule 5.2.5 clauses, especially for sustainable energy systems with complex controls.

Supporting Grid Connection Study Types

In addition to steady-state and dynamic simulations, large-scale projects over 5 MW often require a broader range of grid connection studies. These include NEM-wide planning studies to assess the generator’s impact on the wider transmission network, and event investigation studies to analyse issues during or after commissioning. 

With generator performance assessments, it ensures real-world output matches model predictions, while Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) model tuning refines inverter and controller behaviour. PSSE and PSCAD benchmarking also helps confirm consistency between simulation platforms.

For hybrid systems with a battery energy storage system (BESS), further studies evaluate charging, discharging, and grid support functions. This ensures proper coordination with solar PV controls and system requirements.

Partner with an Expert Who Understands the Grid

Understanding the difference between steady-state and dynamic studies is important for the success of any solar power plant grid integration. Steady-state studies ensure the system performs reliably under normal operating conditions, while dynamic studies assess how it responds to faults and disturbances. Both are needed for meeting compliance obligations, securing grid connection approval, and maintaining system stability within the NEM.

Partner with ElectraGlobe for seamless NEM grid connection. Contact us to discuss your project requirements today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you want to learn more about how to ensure compliance in your solar power plant project, here are answers to your common questions!

What do you need for a solar system project?

You need a well-defined site, approved solar electrical plans, and DNSP-compliant grid connection studies. Quality equipment, system design, and a qualified engineering team are also important.

What is a hold point test in a solar power plant project?

A hold point test is required during commissioning to verify that the solar plant performs as expected before moving to the next stage of grid connection. It ensures that technical requirements are met and that the system operates safely and reliably under real conditions.

What is the R0, R1 and R2 process in grid connection?

R0: Preliminary stage with feasibility studies, initial modelling, and NSP/AEMO engagement.

R1: Design and modelling phase with GPS submission and steady-state/dynamic simulations.R2: On-site testing, hold point testing, and final validation for full registration.