Firm

Firm capacity represents the capacity granted without network limitations at the connection point and is defined in the grid connection agreement.

Firm capacity is determined based on load-flow and short-circuit analyses, substation bay availability or expansion feasibility and local power capacities. Two fundamental factors determine the feasibility of connecting renewable energy sources, particularly wind farms: network constraints – assessment of loading conditions in the transmission and 110 kV distribution networks under normal and contingency (N -1) operating states, system security considerations – assessment of the ability of the national grid to maintain secure operation given the daily load profile.

Flexible capacity is not currently defined in PSE's infrastructure and may only be a result of specific, case-by-case agreements between PSE and requesters, at PSE's discretion.

PSE does not currently consider flexible capacities in the grid.

Available connection capacities considering network constraints were determined iteratively in two steps. Step 1 establishes preliminary available capacities reflecting only the conditions of the transmission network, without accounting for connection conditions issued by DSOs. Step 2 determines available capacities reflecting the conditions of the entire KSE, including all connection conditions issued for installations in Poland. These Step 2 values are considered realistic and are intended for publication.

The published information is legally non-binding. To reserve or acquire connection capacity, a formal connection conditions request form must be submitted. The published capacities are valid for one location at a time only. The following elements are taken into account: - assessment of the feasibility of connecting renewable energy generation from the perspective of secure system operation, - the current structure of generation units in the national grid, - planned permanent decommissioning of conventional generation units, - grid connection conditions issued by PSE for generation facilities, - transmission grid development plans, including the expansion potential of individual nodes, - connection conditions issued by DSOs for 110 kV installations.

Available connection capacities are provided for the current state of the system and for 5 years into the future, reflecting the planned transmission grid expansions included in the PRSP. It should be emphasized that connecting wind or photovoltaic farms or energy storage systems within the planned 5 year period will only be feasible if the planned grid expansions outlined in the corresponding documents are implemented.