Photovoltaic grid-forming control strategy investigation using Hardware-in-the-Loop Experiments

Somesh Bhattacharya, Chrysanthos Charalambous, Anja Banjac, Zoran Miletic, Thomas Strasser, Brian Azzopardi, Christina Papadimitriou, Venizelos Efthymiou, Alexis Polycarpou

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Abstract

The frequency stability of a power system is of paramount importance, as a fast frequency swings in the system can lead to oscillatory instability, and thereby blackouts. A grid-connected microgrid, that can operate in the islanded mode can also possess such deteriorating effect due to the higher share of converter-based sources. In this paper, a coordinated frequency control within a distribution network is discussed, with a higher share of Photovoltaics (PV). The main objective of this paper is to test the grid-forming capabilities of PVs, without the requirement of an energy storage in the network. The tests were carried out with the help of the Typhoon Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) platform using a real Cypriot network feeder. The real-time results confirm the efficacy of the PV as a grid-forming inverter, provided it has sufficient input (irradiance) to provide for the loads within the system of interest. The grid-forming PV also possesses the capability of reconnection with the utility grid through a synchronizer switch that requires minimal communication, makes the overall control independent of any other power source, subject to certain irradiance and loading conditions.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication13th Mediterranean Conference on Power Generation, Transmission, Distribution and Energy Conversion (MEDPOWER 2022)
PublisherInstitution of Engineering and Technology
Pages420-424
Number of pages5
ISBN (Electronic)978-1-83953-844-5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 29 May 2023
Event13th Mediterranean Conference on Power Generation, Transmission, Distribution and Energy Conversion, MEDPOWER 2022 - Valletta, Virtual, Malta
Duration: 7 Nov 20229 Nov 2022

Conference

Conference13th Mediterranean Conference on Power Generation, Transmission, Distribution and Energy Conversion, MEDPOWER 2022
Country/TerritoryMalta
CityValletta, Virtual
Period7/11/229/11/22

Keywords

  • Frequency Control
  • Hardware-in-the-Loop
  • Microgrids
  • Photovoltaics
  • Renewable Energy Sources
  • Voltage Control

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