Researchers at the Forschungszentrum Jülich identified the cause of mysterious 60-second frequency fluctuations in power grids across five continents. These anomalies were detected in 12 power systems, including those in Europe, Australia, and South Korea, with frequency deviations of several millihertz.
The study linked these oscillations to uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units. Thousands of devices synchronize their internal clocks via internet protocols or GPS. This leads to simultaneous battery self-tests, creating a cumulative load on local grids that is further amplified by hydroelectric power plant responses.
The impact is significant, with some regions experiencing increased amplitude over time. In Ireland, for instance, fluctuations rose from approximately 3 mHz to 12 mHz between 2016 and 2021. This phenomenon affects equipment with a total power capacity reaching tens of megawatts.
Experts warn that the growing number of data centers and UPS systems could accelerate equipment wear and increase the risk of power grid failures. Researchers have proposed that manufacturers desynchronize battery testing protocols to mitigate these cumulative effects.
