Frequency Containment Reserve

FCR today is a crucial factor in preventing outages and keeping power supplies stable. But what exactly is it? Imagine the power grid as a sophisticated orchestra in which every instrument - from huge wind farms to tiny solar panels - is perfectly tuned to each other. As soon as one instrument is in danger of going out of tune, there is a risk of imbalance. This is where Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR), also called primary reserve, comes in: an automatic system that corrects deviations in grid frequency at lightning speed. By adjusting or switching off energy within seconds, FCR ensures that our "concert" of generation and consumption remains pristine.

Bob Hermans

Bob Hermans

22/4/2025
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What is Frequency Containment Reserve?

Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR), also called primary reserve, is a mechanism that continuously monitors the power grid and takes immediate action as soon as the frequency deviates from the ideal level (usually 50 Hz). As such, it is the first line of defense against instability on the grid because it automatically adds or subtracts energy when sudden differences occur between supply and demand.

Through this rapid response, FCR helps prevent large-scale power outages and maintain a safe and reliable power supply. Especially at a time when, for example, the European Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD), the Building Works Decree and the NTA 8800 set high requirements for energy efficiency and stability, an effective primary reserve is indispensable to comply with these directives.

Importance of primary reserve

Primary reserve, also known as Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR), plays a key role in ensuring grid stability. When a sudden fluctuation in supply or demand occurs, FCR reacts almost immediately to correct this imbalance. This prevents large deviations in grid frequency, resulting in crucial processes and facilities remaining continuously powered.

Especially in an environment where energy systems are increasingly stressed by the growth of both renewables and electricity demand, the stabilizing effect of FCR is indispensable.

By intervening quickly, FCR minimizes the risk of failures or blackouts, and helps meet the high energy and safety requirements set by directives such as the European Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) and the national Building Works Decree for the Living Environment. The NTA 8800, which revolves around energy performance of buildings, also emphasizes the importance of a stable power grid for efficient and reliable energy supply.

FCR in practice

In practice, frequency containment reserve (FCR) ensures that the power grid is continuously monitored for fluctuations in frequency. This is done by sophisticated metering systems that record every small deviation. As soon as a sudden dip or spike is detected, FCR sends a signal to the affected sources or storage systems. These sources can then immediately add or withdraw energy, quickly returning the frequency to the correct level.

This process almost always takes place automatically, without the need for manual intervention. In this way, it is possible to make adjustments within seconds and prevent disruptions that could otherwise lead to equipment failure or even large-scale power outages.

Whether you're dealing with extra load from peak consumers or a sudden increase in wind or solar power, FCR catches the anomalies before they grow into a problem. This keeps the power system stable and reliable, which is critical at a time when power demand and generation are becoming increasingly dynamic.

Benefits of Frequency Containment Reserve

With frequency containment reserve (FCR), fluctuations in the power grid are automatically stabilized. These benefits benefit not only grid operators and power producers, but also installers and companies striving for a reliable and efficient power supply. FCR minimizes the risk of outages and failures, which is crucial at a time when more and more systems and applications depend on a stable grid.

  • Instant stabilization: FCR responds automatically and within seconds to frequency deviations.
  • Higher reliability: applying FCR reduces power failures and blackouts.
  • Better predictability: with FCR, the frequency remains close to 50 Hz, ensuring a safe and consistent grid.
  • Cost savings: fewer failures mean lower maintenance and repair costs.
  • Suitable for various applications: whether for industrial environments or residential projects, FCR contributes to stability everywhere.

In short, frequency containment reserve is an essential pillar of an efficient and safe energy system. By intervening quickly and effectively, FCR is an indispensable tool for keeping energy supplies as reliable as possible.

Contribute to a stable electricity grid with your Frax battery

By making smart use of frequency containment reserve (FCR), you contribute to a stable energy supply and prevent unwanted fluctuations in the grid. Would you, as an installer or company, like to benefit directly from the advantages of FCR and a reliable energy network?

Then choose Frax's plug-and-play batteries, which you can easily deploy to quickly supply or store energy when needed. That way, you not only help take your own projects to the next level, but also support a robust and efficient grid. Contact Frax today and discover how you can contribute to a future-proof energy system with our battery solutions.

This post was last updated on: 

1/4/2025

Bob Hermans

Founder & CEO

After being active in the energy market for more than a decade, I decided to found Frax in 2023. With Frax, I want to support installers with smart, plug-and-play battery storage systems that really make a difference. My passion lies in renewable energy and innovation, and I believe that simple, reliable solutions are the key to a future with more efficient energy use.

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