What does "intermittency" refer to in renewable energy production?

Intermittency in renewable energy production describes the nature of energy generation from sources such as solar, wind, and hydro, which are not constantly available. This variability stems from the dependence on environmental conditions: for example, solar energy generation is contingent upon sunlight, while wind energy relies on wind speeds. As a result, these sources can produce energy at different levels throughout the day or over various seasons, leading to periods of high output followed by periods with little or no generation.

This characteristic necessitates advanced energy management systems and storage solutions to mitigate the impact of these fluctuations on the grid. Thus, understanding intermittency is crucial for integrating renewable energy into existing power systems effectively.