Assessing the dynamics of power curtailment in China: Market insights from wind, solar, and nuclear energy integration

This study examines the trends and impacts of power reduction in China, concentrating on wind, solar, and nuclear energy sources. We utilize hourly curtailment data from 2014 to 2022 to examine trends in curtailment across various energy sources using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS), and Generalized Additive Models (GAM). Our data demonstrate that solar energy undergoes more significant and predictable curtailment compared to wind energy at the same penetration levels, mostly attributable to grid congestion and demand unpredictability. Regional variations in curtailment rates are evident, with inland provinces experiencing elevated curtailment due to transmission limitations, whereas coastal regions advantageously possess diversified energy portfolios. The report emphasizes that the incorporation of nuclear energy mitigates curtailment, yet systemic inflexibility and insufficient storage infrastructure persist as significant obstacles to maximizing renewable energy use. To resolve these difficulties, governments should concentrate on augmenting grid flexibility, broadening storage solutions, and strengthening interregional transmission capacity. These findings enhance our comprehension of curtailment dynamics and provide valuable recommendations for attaining China's renewable energy objectives.