Why do inverters ‘use up’ System Strength, and where does it go?
Power system strength has become a major topic in grid-connection practice and is even mentioned in the popular press. Everyone agrees that it’s a good thing – and that we want more of it – but there doesn't seem to be a consensus on exactly what it means. Rotating synchronous machines and, possibly, grid-forming inverters seem to provide system strength, while grid-following inverter-based resources seem to consume it. Precisely what is being “consumed”, how, and in what quantities are generally not discussed. This talk offers a clear definition of system strength (beyond fault-level) and provides an intuitive explanation of how inverters may reduce it. It then reviews how system strength is assessed and regulated in the Australian National Electricity Market, highlighting both notable successes and ongoing challenges as inverter-based generation and storage continue to grow.
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- St Lucia Campus
- The University of Queensland
- Brisbane, Queensland
- Australia
- Building: Andrew N. Liveris Building
- Room Number: 46-914
- Starts 08 February 2026 02:00 PM UTC
- Ends 12 February 2026 02:00 PM UTC
- No Admission Charge
Speakers
Peter Mayer
Peter Mayer, Senior Specialist – Power System Simulation and Analysis, Manitoba Hydro International Ltd.
Biography:
Peter Mayer, M.Sc., has been working in power system planning, design, and analysis for 25 years. Experience on utility, manufacturing, and consulting sides of the industry which has provided him with a wide perspective on the industry. Since 2019 he is most often focused on supporting challenging generation connections in the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM). He has US and European patents relating to achieving grid code compliance of renewable plants and is an active member of CIGRE.