Fraunhofer ISE Develops Solutions for the Super Grid

In the “Super Grid” project, Fraunhofer ISE is working on the optimization and integration of thermal storage systems in order to increase the flexibility and efficiency of solar thermal power plants.

The largest solar power plant in North Africa is presently being built in Ouarzazate, Morocco. By 2016, this plant shall produce cheaper, emissions-free electricity for half a million people. In future, projects like the one in Ouarzazate could also generate electricity for the European continent. Electricity transmission between continents requires a reliable network, even at the production sites. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, together with other Fraunhofer institutes, is investigating different aspects of a so-called “Super Grid”. Their research involves modeling a suitable energy system, developing technological solutions for storage as well as the generation and distribution of DC power.