AFRY
Swedish design and consulting company.
What is grid forming (GFM) technology and why is it becoming essential?
“Grid forming converters actively establish voltage, frequency, and system strength at the point of connection—providing synthetic inertia, fast frequency response, voltage/reactive power support, black start, and islanding capability. As synchronous machines retire and nonsynchronous penetration increases, these capabilities are critical for maintaining stability in weak grids and high‑renewable systems.”
View in the company profileHow do grid forming converters differ from grid following inverters?
“Grid following inverters rely on an existing stable voltage reference and therefore struggle in weak systems with low short‑circuit strength. Grid forming devices create the reference, meaning they can operate independently, stabilize weak grids, and deliver services historically provided by synchronous machines.”
View in the company profileWhy are weak grids becoming more common in renewable‑rich systems?
“As inverter‑based resources replace synchronous generators, the power system experiences lower inertia, lower short‑circuit strength, increased sensitivity to control interactions, and higher nonsynchronous penetration. This combination makes traditional control strategies insufficient, increasing the need for grid‑forming operation.”
View in the company profileWhich technologies can provide grid forming capabilities today?
“Multiple asset types can perform grid forming functions, including HVDC interconnectors, offshore wind power plants, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), hybrid STATCOM and power electronics solutions, emerging Energy Islands. These deployments already demonstrate improved frequency response, voltage support, and reduced reliance on synchronous condensers.”
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