The challenge
Hybrid renewable projects
Thailand is expanding hybrid renewable projects that combine floating solar photovoltaics, hydropower and battery energy storage. Operating these assets as one system requires sophisticated control to manage variability, maintain reliability and improve flexibility.
The EGAT is developing bespoke VPP/EMS controllers tailored to local grid needs and now seeks rigorous, low risk testing before broader deployment.
Our response
Integrating EGAT's systems for testing
CSIRO will integrate EGAT’s EMS into REIF’s flexible test environment. REIF enables hardware and power hardware in the loop experiments that replicate demanding grid conditions. Together, CSIRO and EGAT will:
- integrate the EMS with simulated and physical assets at the REIF
- test performance under scenarios with high renewable penetration, solar variability and changing grid conditions
- share lessons from Australian experience on inverter capabilities and standards relevant to integrating high shares of renewables
- explore grid forming inverter operation as virtual synchronous generators.
The project runs in two stages: technical familiarisation and planning, followed by onsite integration and testing at REIF with engineers from both organisations.
The results
Anticipated outcomes for Australia and Thailand
- Sharper control strategies: Testing in the REIF is expected to refine EMS algorithms for smoothing solar fluctuations, scheduling hydropower and coordinating battery storage.
- Better asset integration: Findings should support more stable operation of hybrid hydro-solar-battery plants and improve system flexibility.
- Capability uplift: EGAT engineers will gain hands on experience with advanced testing workflows, while CSIRO deepens their understanding of Southeast Asian grid needs.
- Standards and inverter insights: Joint work will inform application of inverter standards and build practical knowledge on grid forming inverters and virtual synchronous generator behaviour.
- Stronger collaboration: The partnership will create a platform for future testing and research between Australia and Thailand.
Impact
This project accelerates the safe adoption of renewables by validating advanced control systems in a world class facility. It supports more resilient and flexible power systems and showcases how international partnerships can accelerate the energy transition.