This paper was conceived to investigate some central issues related to the upheaval of current energy scenarios in Sicily. New power connection lines that are about to be built in the Mediterranean area, planned with a view to a constantly increasing renewable generation, encourage the carrying out of analyses on how the Sicilian electric power system will be able to make itself ready to support large power injections, especially due to new renewables plants that will be established in the region soon. This study, carried out in close collaboration with the Italian TSO Terna S.p.A and the University of Palermo, defines what the impacts of new renewable power plants will be on the Sicilian power transmission grid under intact and non-intact grid conditions. This study consists of steady-state simulations carried out using WinCreso^® software version 7.62.1-3 in two energy scenarios estimated for the years 2024 and 2027, based on real connection requests by producers to Terna, and allows one to go beyond the studies conducted so far on a 2030 basis through the precise identification of network nodes or lines in difficulty. Finally, as well as presenting an interesting case study due to Sicily’s strategic position in the Mediterranean Sea, this article proposes a methodological approach that can easily be adopted in other contexts and by other TSOs to analyze similar situations.

Sicily, an Italian region in the south of Italy, is a candidate for becoming an energy “hub” in the Mediterranean in the coming years. Its geographical location, between the African continent and Europe, makes it a key hub for the distribution of electricity flows. The region has great potential for the development of renewable energy sources. Inspired by the Australian “Renewable Energy Zones” model, the identification of existing Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) and the proper design of future REZs on the territory will simplify and improve the operation of the network. A very effective tool in managing REZs is Dynamic Thermal Rating (DTR) technology. This technology allows for dynamic rating of the high voltage transmission system, ensuring that the maximum allowable current is transported while preventing the annealing of the electrical conductor and complying with all necessary safety parameters. The objective of the work carried out in collaboration with Terna S.p.A. (Italian Transmission System Operator) was to evaluate the application of this technology on the Sicilian electricity network in order to reduce potential network congestion and system inefficiencies. The results obtained demonstrate the significant potential of Dynamic Thermal Rating in Sicily. These devices would allow a significant increase in the current flow of electrical lines without violating safety limits.

Sicily, an Italian region in the south of Italy, is candidate to become an energy "hub" in the Mediterranean in the coming years. Its geographical location, between the African continent and Europe, makes it a crucial hub for the distribution of electricity flows. The region has a high potential for exploiting renewable energy sources. Inspired by the Australian “Renewable Energy Zones” model, identifying existing Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) and properly designing future REZs on the territory will simplify and enhance the operation of the grid.A very effective tool in managing REZs is Dynamic Thermal Rating (DTR) technology. This technology allows dynamic rating on the high voltage transmission system, ensuring the maximum allowable current is transported while preventing the annealing of the electrical conductor and adhering to all necessary safety parameters.In the work carried out in collaboration with Terna S.p.A (Italian Transmission System Operator), the goal was to assess the application of this technology on the Sicilian electricity grid, to reduce potential network congestion and system inefficiencies.The results obtained demonstrate the significant potential of Dynamic Thermal Rating in Sicily. These devices would allow a substantial increase in the current flow on electrical lines without violating safety limits.