Annex X: Integration of Wind into Hydropower Systems (Completed 2011)
Background
The IEA Wind Implementing Agreement formed an Annex on the integration of wind and hydropower systems, and proposed that the Hydropower Implementing Agreement form a similar Annex. The Hydropower IA Annex on 
Integration of Wind into Hydropower Systems had some common goals, and some discrete to the Hydropower industry. Working together with the Wind Annex, the Hydropower Annex had the objective of identifying ways that hydropower can enhance the development of wind energy, while increasing its own value and effectiveness.
Objectives
The primary purposes of this Annex was to conduct cooperative research concerning the generation, transmission, and economics of integrating wind and hydropower systems, and to provide a forum for information exchange.
The following were specific objectives of the Annex:
- Establishment of an international forum for exchange of knowledge, ideas, and experiences related to the integration of wind and hydropower technologies within electricity supply systems.
- As it pertains to wind and hydropower integration, share information among participating members concerning grid integration, transmission issues, hydrological and hydropower impacts, markets and economics, and simplified modeling techniques.
- Through information sharing and exchange of ideas, identify technically and economically feasible system configurations for integrating wind and hydropower, including the effects of market structure on wind-hydro system economics with the intention of identifying the most effective market structures
- Document case studies pertaining to wind and hydropower integration, and create an on-line library of reports.
Activities
The Hydropower Annex X worked jointly with the Wind Implementing Agreement’s Wind/Hydro Annex, to undertake research and studies on such issues as grid integration, hydrologic impacts, market and economic issues and simplified modeling of wind-hydro integration potential. Some key issues of specific interest to hydropower generators include the simulation of water resource, reservoir storage and wind forecasting to optimize utilization, social and environmental issues arising from integration and the value of the ancillary services that hydropower can provide. While integration of wind energy (new and existing developments) into existing hydropower and other systems is the initial focus of the Annexes, the Hydropower group will also consider the synergies of developing new hydropower in joint hydro-wind developments.
Final reports
The final technical reports of IEA Wind Task 24 (IEAHydro Task X): Integration of Wind and Hydropower Systems are in two volumes. These reports are the result of a four-year effort involving seven member countries and thirteen participating organizations.
Volume 1: Issues, Impacts, and Economics of Wind and Hydropower Integration
Volume 2: Participant Case Studies
More information
For more information about the Wind/Hydro Integration Annex contact the IEA Hydro Secretary.