A dataset and protocol to enhance power system models with fossil-fuel-fired electricity generating units

Decarbonizing the electric power sector requires integrating large shares of variable renewable energy resources. Addressing the challenges created by this integration requires analysis with power system models that have detailed and transparent representations of fossil-fuel-fired electricity-generating units. In this paper, we present two key contributions. First, we provide a dataset containing the operational and cost parameters of coal, gas, and oil-fired electricity-generating units, compiled from an extensive literature review. This dataset includes technical constraints (e.g., minimum power output, ramp rates, and minimum up/down times) and cost parameters (e.g., start-up, shut-down, and no-load costs) that are rarely available in public databases but are essential for production cost and capacity expansion models. Second, we propose a protocol to integrate this dataset with publicly available data sources, enabling researchers to create realistic, unit-level representations of power system assets without relying on proprietary data. To illustrate the proposed protocol, we provide a step-by-step walkthrough of the process used to represent fossil-fuel-fired EGUs in two distinct power systems: the Duke Energy Carolinas & Duke Energy Progress System in the U.S., and the China Southern Power Grid. The protocol helps avoid oversimplified assumptions that may bias results, thereby supporting the development of reliable, economical, and environmentally sustainable electricity systems.

Duke Scholars

Author Dalia Patino-Echeverri Environmental Social Systems