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Journal ArticleDOI

Enhanced power quality control strategy for single-phase inverters in distributed generation systems

TL;DR: In this article, a single-phase inverter for distributed generation systems requiring power quality features, such as harmonic and reactive power compensation for grid-connected operation, is proposed, where the inverter controls the active power flow from the renewable energy source to the grid and also performs the nonlinear load current harmonic compensation keeping the grid current almost sinusoidal.
Abstract: Power electronic converters are commonly used for interfacing distributed generation systems to the electrical power network. This paper deals with a single-phase inverter for distributed generation systems requiring power quality features, such as harmonic and reactive power compensation for grid-connected operation. The idea is to integrate the DG unit functions with shunt active power filter capabilities. With the proposed approach, the inverter controls the active power flow from the renewable energy source to the grid and also performs the non-linear load current harmonic compensation keeping the grid current almost sinusoidal. The control scheme employs a current reference generator based on Sinusoidal Signal Integrator (SSI) and Instantaneous Reactive Power (IRP) theory together with a repetitive current controller. Experimental results obtained on a 4 kVA inverter prototype demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed solution.
Citations
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Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, an extensive literature review is conducted on emerging power quality challenges due to renewable energy integration, which are caused by non-controllable variability of renewable energy resources.
Abstract: Renewable energy becomes a key contributor to our modern society, but their integration to power grid poses significant technical challenges. Power quality is an important aspect of renewable energy integration. The major power quality concerns are: 1) Voltage and frequency fluctuations, which are caused by noncontrollable variability of renewable energy resources. The intermittent nature of renewable energy resources due to ever-changing weather conditions leads to voltage and frequency fluctuations at the interconnected power grid. 2) Harmonics, which are introduced by power electronic devices utilized in renewable energy generation. When penetration level of renewable energy is high, the influence of harmonics could be significant. In this paper, an extensive literature review is conducted on emerging power quality challenges due to renewable energy integration. This paper consists of two sections: 1) Power quality problem definition. Wind turbines and solar photovoltaic systems and their power quality issues are summarized. 2) Existing approaches to improve power quality. Various methods are reviewed, and the control-technology-based power quality improvement is the major focus of this paper. The future research directions for emerging power quality challenges for renewable energy integration are recommended.

518 citations

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, an enhanced distributed generation (DG) unit virtual impedance control approach is proposed, which can realize accurate regulation of DG unit equivalent impedance at both fundamental and selected harmonic frequencies.
Abstract: In order to address the load sharing problem in islanding microgrids, this paper proposes an enhanced distributed generation (DG) unit virtual impedance control approach. The proposed method can realize accurate regulation of DG unit equivalent impedance at both fundamental and selected harmonic frequencies. In contrast to conventional virtual impedance control methods, where only a line current feed-forward term is added to the DG voltage reference, the proposed virtual impedance at fundamental and harmonic frequencies is regulated using DG line current and point of common coupling (PCC) voltage feed-forward terms, respectively. With this modification, the impacts of mismatched physical feeder impedances are compensated. Thus, better reactive and harmonic power sharing can be realized. Additionally, this paper also demonstrates that PCC harmonic voltages can be mitigated by reducing the magnitude of DG unit equivalent harmonic impedance. Finally, in order to alleviate the computing load at DG unit local controller, this paper further exploits the band-pass capability of conventionally resonant controllers. With the implementation of proposed resonant controller, accurate power sharing and PCC harmonic voltage compensation are achieved without using any fundamental and harmonic components extractions. Experimental results from a scaled single-phase microgrid prototype are provided to validate the feasibility of the proposed virtual impedance control approach.

425 citations


Cites background from "Enhanced power quality control stra..."

  • ...2243757 converters has been well accepted [3]–[12]....

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  • ...In [12] and [13], the shunt resistive active power filter (R-APF) concept was embedded in the current control schemes of grid-connected DG unit....

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  • ...Further, considering that DG units normally have higher control bandwidth compared to synchronous generators, they can also provide ancillary power line conditioning service through their interfacing converter control [12]–[16], [28]....

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Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present the state of the art of research work carried out on the optimal planning of distributed generation (DG) systems under different aspects, such as the best technology to be used, the number and the capacity of the units, the best location, the type of network connection, etc.
Abstract: This paper attempts to present the state of art of research work carried out on the optimal planning of distributed generation (DG) systems under different aspects. There are number of important issues to be considered while carrying out studies related to the planning and operational aspects of DG. The planning of the electric system with the presence of DG requires the definition of several factors, such as: the best technology to be used, the number and the capacity of the units, the best location, the type of network connection, etc. The impact of DG in system operating characteristics, such as electric losses, voltage profile, stability and reliability needs to be appropriately evaluated. For that reason, the use of an optimization method capable of indicating the best solution for a given distribution network can be very useful for the system planning engineer, when dealing with the increase of DG penetration that is happening nowadays. The selection of the best places for installation and the preferable size of the DG units in large distribution systems is a complex combinatorial optimization problem. This paper aims at providing a review of the relevant aspects related to DG and its impact that DG might have on the operation of distributed networks. This paper covers the review of basics of DG, DG definition, current status of DG technologies, potential advantages and disadvantages, review for optimal placement of DG systems, optimizations techniques/methodologies used in optimal planning of DG in distribution systems. An attempt has been made to judge that which methodologies/techniques are suitable for optimal placement of DG systems based on the available literature and detail comparison(s) of each one.

351 citations

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors comprehensively reviewed the topologies and control strategies of multi-functional grid-connected inverters (MFGCIs) and provided a detailed explanation, comparison, and discussion on MFGCIs.
Abstract: Grid-connected inverters are key components of distributed generation systems (DGSs) and micro-grids (MGs), because they are effective interfaces for renewable and sustainable distributed energy resources (DERs). Recently, multi-functional grid-connected inverters (MFGCIs) have attracted more and more attention for their benefits on auxiliary services on power quality enhancement in DGSs and MGs. These kinds of converters can not only achieve the power generation of DERs, but also can perform as power quality conditioners at their grid-connected points. It should be noted that these functionalities are optimally organized in the same device, which can significantly enhance the cost-effective feature of the grid-connected inverter, as well as can decrease the investment and bulk compared with multiple devices with independent functionalities. MFGCIs are especially suitable for DGSs and MGs application due to their good performances and benefits. Topologies and control strategies of MFGCIs are comprehensively reviewed in this paper. Additionally, detailed explanation, comparison, and discussion on MFGCIs are achieved. Furthermore, some future research fields on MFGCIs are well summarized.

309 citations

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the LVRT capability of three mainstream single-phase transformerless PV inverters under grid faults is explored in order to map future challenges, and control strategies with reactive power injection are also discussed.
Abstract: Transformerless photovoltaic (PV) inverters are going to be more widely adopted in order to achieve high efficiency, as the penetration level of PV systems is continuously booming. However, problems may arise in highly PV-integrated distribution systems. For example, a sudden stoppage of all PV systems due to anti-islanding protection may contribute to grid disturbances. Thus, standards featuring with ancillary services for the next-generation PV systems are under a revision in some countries. The future PV systems have to provide a full range of services as what the conventional power plants do, e.g., low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) under grid faults and grid support service. In order to map future challenges, the LVRT capability of three mainstream single-phase transformerless PV inverters under grid faults is explored in this paper. Control strategies with reactive power injection are also discussed. The selected inverters are the full-bridge (FB) inverter with bipolar modulation, the FB inverter with dc bypass, and the Highly Efficient and Reliable Inverter Concept (HERIC). A 1-kW single-phase grid-connected PV system is analyzed to verify the discussions. The tests confirmed that, although the HERIC inverter is the best candidate in terms of efficiency, it is not very particularly feasible in case of a voltage sag. The other two topologies are capable of providing reactive current during LVRT. A benchmarking of those inverters is also provided in this paper, which offers the possibility to select appropriate devices and to further optimize the transformerless system.

307 citations

References
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Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: An overview of the structures for the DPGS based on fuel cell, photovoltaic, and wind turbines is given and the possibility of compensation for low-order harmonics is discussed.
Abstract: Renewable energy sources like wind, sun, and hydro are seen as a reliable alternative to the traditional energy sources such as oil, natural gas, or coal. Distributed power generation systems (DPGSs) based on renewable energy sources experience a large development worldwide, with Germany, Denmark, Japan, and USA as leaders in the development in this field. Due to the increasing number of DPGSs connected to the utility network, new and stricter standards in respect to power quality, safe running, and islanding protection are issued. As a consequence, the control of distributed generation systems should be improved to meet the requirements for grid interconnection. This paper gives an overview of the structures for the DPGS based on fuel cell, photovoltaic, and wind turbines. In addition, control structures of the grid-side converter are presented, and the possibility of compensation for low-order harmonics is also discussed. Moreover, control strategies when running on grid faults are treated. This paper ends up with an overview of synchronization methods and a discussion about their importance in the control

4,655 citations


"Enhanced power quality control stra..." refers background in this paper

  • ...When operated in island mode, the inverters are voltage-controlled, generating the output voltage at a specified amplitude and frequency [ 5 ], [6]....

    [...]

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors proposed a method of modeling and simulation of photovoltaic arrays by adjusting the curve at three points: open circuit, maximum power, and short circuit.
Abstract: This paper proposes a method of modeling and simulation of photovoltaic arrays. The main objective is to find the parameters of the nonlinear I-V equation by adjusting the curve at three points: open circuit, maximum power, and short circuit. Given these three points, which are provided by all commercial array data sheets, the method finds the best I-V equation for the single-diode photovoltaic (PV) model including the effect of the series and parallel resistances, and warranties that the maximum power of the model matches with the maximum power of the real array. With the parameters of the adjusted I-V equation, one can build a PV circuit model with any circuit simulator by using basic math blocks. The modeling method and the proposed circuit model are useful for power electronics designers who need a simple, fast, accurate, and easy-to-use modeling method for using in simulations of PV systems. In the first pages, the reader will find a tutorial on PV devices and will understand the parameters that compose the single-diode PV model. The modeling method is then introduced and presented in details. The model is validated with experimental data of commercial PV arrays.

3,811 citations


"Enhanced power quality control stra..." refers background in this paper

  • ...This scenario has stimulated the development of alternative power sources such as photovoltaic panels, wind turbines and fuel cells [ 1 ]–[3]....

    [...]

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, power electronics, the technology of efficiently processing electric power, play an essential part in the integration of the dispersed generation units for good efficiency and high performance of the power systems.
Abstract: The global electrical energy consumption is rising and there is a steady increase of the demand on the power capacity, efficient production, distribution and utilization of energy. The traditional power systems are changing globally, a large number of dispersed generation (DG) units, including both renewable and nonrenewable energy sources such as wind turbines, photovoltaic (PV) generators, fuel cells, small hydro, wave generators, and gas/steam powered combined heat and power stations, are being integrated into power systems at the distribution level. Power electronics, the technology of efficiently processing electric power, play an essential part in the integration of the dispersed generation units for good efficiency and high performance of the power systems. This paper reviews the applications of power electronics in the integration of DG units, in particular, wind power, fuel cells and PV generators.

2,296 citations


"Enhanced power quality control stra..." refers background in this paper

  • ...When operated in island mode, the inverters are voltage-controlled, generating the output voltage at a specified amplitude and frequency [2-3]....

    [...]

Journal Article
TL;DR: In this article, power electronics, the technology of efficiently processing electric power, play an essential part in the integration of the dispersed generation units for good efficiency and high performance of the power systems.
Abstract: The global electrical energy consumption is rising and there is a steady increase of the demand on the power capacity, efficient production, distribution and utilization of energy. The traditional power systems are changing globally, a large number of dispersed generation (DG) units, including both renewable and nonrenewable energy sources such as wind turbines, photovoltaic (PV) generators, fuel cells, small hydro, wave generators, and gas/steam powered combined heat and power stations, are being integrated into power systems at the distribution level. Power electronics, the technology of efficiently processing electric power, play an essential part in the integration of the dispersed generation units for good efficiency and high performance of the power systems. This paper reviews the applications of power electronics in the integration of DG units, in particular, wind power, fuel cells and PV generators.

2,076 citations

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The possible methods of using the power electronic technology for improving wind turbine performance in power systems to meet the main grid connection requirements are discussed.
Abstract: This paper reviews the power electronic applications for wind energy systems. Various wind turbine systems with different generators and power electronic converters are described, and different technical features are compared. The electrical topologies of wind farms with different wind turbines are summarized and the possible uses of power electronic converters with wind farms are shown. Finally, the possible methods of using the power electronic technology for improving wind turbine performance in power systems to meet the main grid connection requirements are discussed.

1,344 citations


"Enhanced power quality control stra..." refers background in this paper

  • ...This scenario has stimulated the development of alternative power sources such as photovoltaic panels, wind turbines and fuel cells [1]–[ 3 ]....

    [...]