Modeling, Analysis and Testing of Autonomous Operation of an Inverter-Based Microgrid
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed a model for autonomous operation of inverter-based micro-grids, where each sub-module is modeled in state-space form and all are combined together on a common reference frame.
Abstract: The analysis of the small-signal stability of conventional power systems is well established, but for inverter based microgrids there is a need to establish how circuit and control features give rise to particular oscillatory modes and which of these have poor damping. This paper develops the modeling and analysis of autonomous operation of inverter-based microgrids. Each sub-module is modeled in state-space form and all are combined together on a common reference frame. The model captures the detail of the control loops of the inverter but not the switching action. Some inverter modes are found at relatively high frequency and so a full dynamic model of the network (rather than an algebraic impedance model) is used. The complete model is linearized around an operating point and the resulting system matrix is used to derive the eigenvalues. The eigenvalues (termed "modes") indicate the frequency and damping of oscillatory components in the transient response. A sensitivity analysis is also presented which helps identifying the origin of each of the modes and identify possible feedback signals for design of controllers to improve the system stability. With experience it is possible to simplify the model (reduce the order) if particular modes are not of interest as is the case with synchronous machine models. Experimental results from a microgrid of three 10-kW inverters are used to verify the results obtained from the model
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TL;DR: In this paper, a detailed analysis of the main operation modes and control structures for power converters belonging to micro-grids is carried out, focusing mainly on grid-forming, grid-feeding, and grid-supporting configurations.
Abstract: The enabling of ac microgrids in distribution networks allows delivering distributed power and providing grid support services during regular operation of the grid, as well as powering isolated islands in case of faults and contingencies, thus increasing the performance and reliability of the electrical system. The high penetration of distributed generators, linked to the grid through highly controllable power processors based on power electronics, together with the incorporation of electrical energy storage systems, communication technologies, and controllable loads, opens new horizons to the effective expansion of microgrid applications integrated into electrical power systems. This paper carries out an overview about microgrid structures and control techniques at different hierarchical levels. At the power converter level, a detailed analysis of the main operation modes and control structures for power converters belonging to microgrids is carried out, focusing mainly on grid-forming, grid-feeding, and grid-supporting configurations. This analysis is extended as well toward the hierarchical control scheme of microgrids, which, based on the primary, secondary, and tertiary control layer division, is devoted to minimize the operation cost, coordinating support services, meanwhile maximizing the reliability and the controllability of microgrids. Finally, the main grid services that microgrids can offer to the main network, as well as the future trends in the development of their operation and control for the next future, are presented and discussed.
2,621 citations
Cites background from "Modeling, Analysis and Testing of A..."
...Another external controller sets the reference current to regulate the power delivered to the grid [34], [35]....
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TL;DR: The major issues and challenges in microgrid control are discussed, and a review of state-of-the-art control strategies and trends is presented; a general overview of the main control principles (e.g., droop control, model predictive control, multi-agent systems).
Abstract: The increasing interest in integrating intermittent renewable energy sources into microgrids presents major challenges from the viewpoints of reliable operation and control. In this paper, the major issues and challenges in microgrid control are discussed, and a review of state-of-the-art control strategies and trends is presented; a general overview of the main control principles (e.g., droop control, model predictive control, multi-agent systems) is also included. The paper classifies microgrid control strategies into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary, where primary and secondary levels are associated with the operation of the microgrid itself, and tertiary level pertains to the coordinated operation of the microgrid and the host grid. Each control level is discussed in detail in view of the relevant existing technical literature.
2,358 citations
Cites background or methods from "Modeling, Analysis and Testing of A..."
...Small signal stability and eigenvalue analysis of converter-fed microgrids that are controlled based on droop characteristics have also been reported in the literature [82], [85], [93], [94], concluding that the dominant modes of the closed loop system are determined by droop controllers, and the overall stability of the system mainly depends on droop control gains, system loading conditions, and network parameters....
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...2) Non-Droop-Based Methods: The following control methods address primary control in a multi-DER microgrid from a centralized perspective: • A centralized controller is proposed in [93], [96], where the total load current is measured and transmitted to a central controller....
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TL;DR: In this paper, a review of control strategies, stability analysis, and stabilization techniques for dc microgrids is presented, where overall control is systematically classified into local and coordinated control levels according to respective functionalities in each level.
Abstract: This paper presents a review of control strategies, stability analysis, and stabilization techniques for dc microgrids (MGs). Overall control is systematically classified into local and coordinated control levels according to respective functionalities in each level. As opposed to local control, which relies only on local measurements, some line of communication between units needs to be made available in order to achieve the coordinated control. Depending on the communication method, three basic coordinated control strategies can be distinguished, i.e., decentralized, centralized, and distributed control. Decentralized control can be regarded as an extension of the local control since it is also based exclusively on local measurements. In contrast, centralized and distributed control strategies rely on digital communication technologies. A number of approaches using these three coordinated control strategies to achieve various control objectives are reviewed in this paper. Moreover, properties of dc MG dynamics and stability are discussed. This paper illustrates that tightly regulated point-of-load converters tend to reduce the stability margins of the system since they introduce negative impedances, which can potentially oscillate with lightly damped power supply input filters. It is also demonstrated that how the stability of the whole system is defined by the relationship of the source and load impedances, referred to as the minor loop gain. Several prominent specifications for the minor loop gain are reviewed. Finally, a number of active stabilization techniques are presented.
1,131 citations
Cites background from "Modeling, Analysis and Testing of A..."
...While remarkable progress has been made in improving the performance of ac MGs during the past decade [4]–[11], dc MGs have been recognized as more attractive for...
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TL;DR: In this article, a power control strategy for a low-voltage microgrid is proposed, where the mainly resistive line impedance, the unequal impedance among distributed generation (DG) units, and the microgrid load locations make the conventional frequency and voltage droop method unpractical.
Abstract: In this paper, a power control strategy is proposed for a low-voltage microgrid, where the mainly resistive line impedance, the unequal impedance among distributed generation (DG) units, and the microgrid load locations make the conventional frequency and voltage droop method unpractical. The proposed power control strategy contains a virtual inductor at the interfacing inverter output and an accurate power control and sharing algorithm with consideration of both impedance voltage drop effect and DG local load effect. Specifically, the virtual inductance can effectively prevent the coupling between the real and reactive powers by introducing a predominantly inductive impedance even in a low-voltage network with resistive line impedances. On the other hand, based on the predominantly inductive impedance, the proposed accurate reactive power sharing algorithm functions by estimating the impedance voltage drops and significantly improves the reactive power control and sharing accuracy. Finally, considering the different locations of loads in a multibus microgrid, the reactive power control accuracy is further improved by employing an online estimated reactive power offset to compensate the effects of DG local load power demands. The proposed power control strategy has been tested in simulation and experimentally on a low-voltage microgrid prototype.
1,060 citations
TL;DR: This paper presents a review of issues concerning microgrid issues and provides an account of research in areas related to microgrids, including distributed generation, microgrid value propositions, applications of power electronics, economic issues, micro grid operation and control, micro grids clusters, and protection and communications issues.
Abstract: The significant benefits associated with microgrids have led to vast efforts to expand their penetration in electric power systems. Although their deployment is rapidly growing, there are still many challenges to efficiently design, control, and operate microgrids when connected to the grid, and also when in islanded mode, where extensive research activities are underway to tackle these issues. It is necessary to have an across-the-board view of the microgrid integration in power systems. This paper presents a review of issues concerning microgrids and provides an account of research in areas related to microgrids, including distributed generation, microgrid value propositions, applications of power electronics, economic issues, microgrid operation and control, microgrid clusters, and protection and communications issues.
875 citations
References
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Book•
01 Jan 1994
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a model for the power system stability problem in modern power systems based on Synchronous Machine Theory and Modelling, and a model representation of the synchronous machine representation in stability studies.
Abstract: Part I: Characteristics of Modern Power Systems. Introduction to the Power System Stability Problem. Part II: Synchronous Machine Theory and Modelling. Synchronous Machine Parameters. Synchronous Machine Representation in Stability Studies. AC Transmission. Power System Loads. Excitation in Stability Studies. Prime Mover and Energy Supply Systems. High-Voltage Direct-Current Transmission. Control of Active Power and Reactive Power. Part III: Small Signal Stability. Transient Stability. Voltage Stability. Subsynchronous Machine Representation in Stability Studies. AC Transmission. Power System Loads. Excitation in Stability Studies. Prime Mover and Energy Supply Systems, High-Voltage Direct-Current Transmission. Control of Active Power and Reactive Power. Part III: Small Signal Stability. Transient Stability. Voltage Stability. Subsynchronous Oscillations. Mid-Term and Long-Term Stability. Methods of Improving System Stability.
13,467 citations
"Modeling, Analysis and Testing of A..." refers background in this paper
...Eigenvalues, termed modes, are the solution of the characteristic equation of a system’s linearized state matrix [15]....
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...However, it is possible to use a more general load-flow solution as is often done in conventional power system modeling to obtain initial steady-state conditions [15]....
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...Further information on the origin of different frequency components can be obtained by observing the participation of different state variables in a particular mode [15]....
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28 Sep 1991
TL;DR: In this article, a control scheme for parallel-connected inverters in a standalone AC supply system is presented, which uses feedback of only those variables that can be measured locally at the inverter and does not need communication of control signals between the inverters.
Abstract: A scheme for controlling parallel-connected inverters in a standalone AC supply system is presented. This scheme is suitable for control of inverters in distributed source environments such as in isolated AC systems, large and distributed uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, photovoltaic systems connected to AC grids, and low-voltage DC power transmission meshes. A key feature of the control scheme is that it uses feedback of only those variables that can be measured locally at the inverter and does not need communication of control signals between the inverters. This is essential for the operation of large AC systems, where distances between inverters make communication impractical. It is also important in high-reliability UPS systems where system operation can be maintained in the face of a communication breakdown. Real and reactive power sharing between inverters can be achieved by controlling two independent quantities: the power angle and the fundamental inverter voltage magnitude. Simulation results are presented. >
1,550 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present the operation of a multiagent system (MAS) for the control of a microgrid and a classical distributed algorithm based on the symmetrical assignment problem for the optimal energy exchange between the production units of the Microgrid and the local loads, as well the main grid.
Abstract: This paper presents the operation of a multiagent system (MAS) for the control of a Microgrid. The approach presented utilizes the advantages of using the MAS technology for controlling a Microgrid and a classical distributed algorithm based on the symmetrical assignment problem for the optimal energy exchange between the production units of the Microgrid and the local loads, as well the main grid.
1,035 citations
"Modeling, Analysis and Testing of A..." refers background in this paper
...Depending on the market situation the owner of a microgrid can chose between autonomous and grid connected modes [8]....
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TL;DR: In this paper, a novel control strategy for parallel inverters of distributed generation units in an AC distribution system is presented, based on the droop control method, using only locally measurable feedback signals.
Abstract: This paper presents a novel control strategy for parallel inverters of distributed generation units in an AC distribution system. The proposed control technique, based on the droop control method, uses only locally measurable feedback signals. This method is usually applied to achieve good active and reactive power sharing when communication between the inverters is difficult due to its physical location. However, the conventional voltage and frequency droop methods of achieving load sharing have a slow and oscillating transient response. Moreover, there is no possibility to modify the transient response without the loss of power sharing precision or output-voltage and frequency accuracy. In this work, a great improvement in transient response is achieved by introducing power derivative-integral terms into a conventional droop scheme. Hence, better controllability of the system is obtained and, consequently, correct transient performance can be achieved. In addition, an instantaneous current control loop is also included in the novel controller to ensure correct sharing of harmonic components when supplying nonlinear loads. Simulation and experimental results are presented to prove the validity of this approach, which shows excellent performance as opposed to the conventional one.
1,003 citations
"Modeling, Analysis and Testing of A..." refers methods in this paper
...The modeling approach presented in [7] concentrates on stability issues for an individual inverter connected to a stiff ac bus....
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TL;DR: In this paper, the design and analysis of a unified controller for multibus microgrid system is presented, which includes inner voltage and current loops for regulating the three-phase grid-interfacing inverter, and external power control loops for controlling real and reactive power flow and for facilitating power sharing between the paralleled DG systems.
Abstract: This paper concentrates on the design and analysis of a controller for multibus microgrid system. The controller proposed for use with each distributed generation (DG) system in the microgrid contains inner voltage and current loops for regulating the three-phase grid-interfacing inverter, and external power control loops for controlling real and reactive power flow and for facilitating power sharing between the paralleled DG systems when a utility fault occurs and the microgrid islands. The controller also incorporates synchronization algorithms for ensuring smooth and safe reconnection of the micro and utility grids when the fault is cleared. With the implementation of the unified controller, the multibus microgrid system is able to switch between islanding and grid-connected modes without disrupting the critical loads connected to it. The performance of this unified controller has been verified in simulation using a real-time digital simulator and experimentally using a scaled laboratory prototype.
672 citations