Power Electronic Converter Control Emulating Synchronous Machine Characteristics for Renewable Energy Integration

• The paper focuses on optimising Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG) control in Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC)-based HVDC systems to enhance power system stability and oscillation damping. • It introduces virtual inertia and damping to mimic synchronous generator behaviour, improving frequency and voltage regulation. • The proposed control strategy ensures smooth transitions between grid-connected and islanded modes, suppresses harmonics, and addresses challenges like low inertia and weak grid conditions. • Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the VSG-controlled MMC in maintaining stability during dynamic and transient events, making it suitable for future power systems with high renewable energy integration. This paper discusses the development of a Virtual Synchronous Generator utilizing a Modular Multilevel Converter. The control system employs an internal simulation of the electromechanical swing equation to replicate the inertia and damping characteristics of a synchronous generator, enabling the generation of the necessary frequency and phase angle for MMC control as a VSG. The ac-side management involves cascaded voltage and current controllers operating within a synchronous reference frame defined by the virtual swing equation. Simulation findings validate the performance of the VSG-controlled MMC when connected to an external AC grid and in islanded mode with a resistive load. This paper validates, through experimentation, the effectiveness of controlling a Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) as a Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG) designed to deliver virtual inertia and robust frequency stabilization in power systems with low physical inertia. The proposed control structure incorporates a virtual swing equation, cascaded voltage and current regulation loops, reactive power control, and emulated impedance. A 60 kVA MMC model was employed to demonstrate the system’s capabilities. During frequency disturbances such as a drop from 50 Hz to 49.8 Hz, the controller facilitated dynamic power injection up to approximately 35 kW while capping peak currents at 100 A. Frequency deviations were mitigated within 300 milliseconds, and the converter exhibited seamless transitions to islanded operation along with reliable voltage control during load variations. These findings confirm the proposed controller’s effectiveness in maintaining grid stability under diverse operating conditions.

The conventional synchronous generator (SG) can regulate the active and reactive power for frequency and voltage stability, when the system fluctuates. In renewable energy generation system (RES), the stability problem of RES can be solved by adding virtual inertia and damping in the control strategy of the grid-connected inverter. The grid-connected inverter and renewable energy system with this kind of control strategy, called as virtual synchronous generator (VSG), acts as a synchronous generator. In this paper, the topology of grid-connected PV array and energy storage system is proposed. The VSG used in grid-connected inverter, is modelled as stator and rotor model by stator voltage equation and rotor motion equation, respectively. Meanwhile, the VSG control mechanism, based on droop control and model of VSG, can be divided as active power-frequency and reactive power-voltage control. Besides, the system stability is analyzed based on small signal model, for the design of inertia and damping. The simulation model is designed by MATLAB/Simulink for the implementation of VSG. In simulation, it is compared that the dynamic regulation performance of VSG with different control coefficient, such as virtual inertia, virtual damping, droop coefficient and integral coefficient. The optimization for regulation performance in simulation provides an appropriate selection method of the control coefficient for VSG.

As more and more power electronic based generation units are integrated into power systems, the stable operation of power systems has been challenged due to the lack of system inertia. In order to solve this issue, the virtual synchronous generator (VSG), in which the power electronic inverter is controlled to mimic the characteristics of traditional synchronous generators, is a promising strategy. In this paper, the representation of the synchronous generator in power systems is firstly presented as the basis for the VSG. Then the modelling methods of VSG are comprehensively reviewed and compared. Applications of the VSG in power systems are summarized as well. Finally, the challenges and future trends of the VSG implementation are discussed.

The trend of future power systems is rapidly changing towards renewable energy resources (RESs) due to the depletion of fossil fuels. Meanwhile, the integration of RESs leads to the instability of the power system due to the lack of inertia and frequency instability. In this paper, the virtual synchronous generator (VSG) model is originated from imitating the synchronous generator characteristics. The VSG control approach is systematically researched and studied for different inverter-interfaced systems that include RESs integrated with the power grid. Parallel multi VSG based Photovoltaic (PV) systems are analyzed to validate the frequency response and power stability under high penetration of PV system. An advanced master-slave droop control approach is proposed for frequency regulation. Additionally, three case studies are analyzed under various effects of irradiance and temperature on the PV-VSG based system based on a specific area during a year. Meanwhile, an advanced particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique is utilized which effectively optimized the optimal parameters of droop control of VSG and improved the frequency regulation.

In order to improve the friendliness of the grid connection of new energy power generation, the new energy photovoltaic (PV) unit is equivalent to a synchronous generator in the power system and a virtual synchronous generator (VSG)-controlled PV energy storage complementary grid-connected power generation system model is established and studied to analyze the VSG. When power is supplied to the load together with the power grid, the energy storage unit inside the VSG will release and store the electrical energy according to the fluctuation of the PV output, which plays the role of the adjustment of the prime mover; in the case of load power fluctuations, and power grid assume the corresponding active power regulation according to their capacity. The amount of active power adjustment to jointly and maintain the power balance inside the system under the condition of fluctuating load power. The overall system architecture and control strategy of PV grid-connected inverter based on VSG algorithm are proposed. The PV-VSG proposed here not only takes into account the maximum power point tracking control but also has independent participation in the power supply. A series of characteristics of synchronous generators, such as network frequency modulation voltage regulation and inertia damping, can effectively improve the new energy PV power generation system and promote the new energy consumption. The results of system simulation and field demonstration operation fully show the effectiveness and correctness of the proposed control strategy based on VSG algorithm.

The flexible shaft coupled to the synchronous generator (SG) is critical for the doubly-fed induction generators (DFIG) based wind turbines to improve the ability to suppress system power oscillations. The rigid shaft coupling relationship between the DFIG and SG is analyzed first under the current virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control. To give the power system a vibrational degree of freedom, a novel virtual shaft is added to the VSG emulated by the DFIG-based wind turbine. The power system's two-degree-of-freedom (TDOF) coupled motion model with VSG is then established. The virtual shaft coupling adapted to a DFIG is designed using anti-resonance theory, and the amplitude-frequency characteristic of the TDOF power system is analyzed. With the additional stiffness of the virtual shaft, the power support functions of the VSG, including inertia and damping, are integrated by optimizing the oscillation amplitude at two fixed points in the frequency domain. Finally, on a controller hardware-in-the-loop platform, a typical power system with a high penetration of wind power generation is simulated. The test results demonstrate that by employing virtual shaft coupling, it is possible to suppress system frequency variation and rotor angle oscillation during transient events, significantly improving the reliability of the power support provided by wind turbines.

The electric power grid is undergoing a tremendous transformation due to the increasing penetration of renewable energy resources beginning with wind and more recently with the distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar and battery storage. DERs have dramatically changed the role of the distribution systems in the overall power grid, and they are expected to contribute a significant portion of power generation in the future. If current trends for DERs continue, system operation and control will need to change dramatically for improved grid reliability and resiliency. As renewable resources increase in penetration, new and challenging operational, planning, and design problems are expected to emerge. Some of the key challenges that arise in the planning and operation of the future grid are: 1) Quantifying the impact of high DER penetration in distribution systems on bulk grid behavior over multiple time scales. 2) Identifying whether a particular DER configuration/settings have a large impact on the overall grid behavior. These challenges can be addressed in an offline manner using detailed T&D grid models and they can also be addressed in an online manner using sensor measurements. In particular, the advancement and planned growth in sensor technology in power grid over various voltage levels provide us with a unique opportunity to tackle these challenges from a data analytic perspective without needing detailed T&D grid models. A few questions that naturally arise when addressing the challenges from DERs using sensor data are: 1) How can we use limited sensor measurements to monitor & control voltage stability and small signal stability of the bulk system? 2) How can we ensure that the developed data analytic methods are robust to data availability and quality issues? 3) How can we compute the developed analytics in a scalable manner using streaming measurements? In this project, we addressed the aforementioned challenges arising from DERs and answered the questions raised above on how to effectively use the sensor measurements to enhance the reliability and performance of the electric grid. Thus, the overarching goal of this project is to develop effective reduced/representative system models from data that make the computational complexity sufficiently manageable so as to be useful to simulate, analyze, and even control complex non-linear power systems dynamics with large penetrations of DERs. In order to achieve the objective, the project team established a four-fold technical approach 1) Formulated a combined transmission-distribution co-simulation framework for data generation and validation, 2) Derived reduced/representative models of power systems based on data-driven methods for efficient computation and appropriate representation of system behavior, 3) Developed data driven characterization of power system behavior based on transfer operator theory, machine learning and optimization for model estimation, 4) Incorporated a scalable data management and processing architecture using distributed Kafka streaming applications that coordinate input data streams to the developed data analytics. The key accomplishments of the project are: 1) Development of a scalable multi-timescale T&D co-simulation framework (both for steady state and for dynamic co-simulation) using commercial solvers (PSSE and GridLAB-D). The steady-state T&D co-simulation interface is shared with our industry partner (PJM). 2) A structured reduced order dynamic model of distribution systems that can represent partial motor stalling along with a systematic procedure to derive the model parameters. 3) A PMU based online method to monitor, localize and mitigate fault-induced delayed voltage recovery using DER reactive support and load control in distribution systems. 4) Development of linear operator based robust methodologies for dynamic state estimation, uncertainty quantification, system identification and trajectory prediction for power system dynamics. 5) An adaptive damping control for utilizing wind energy resources to provide oscillation damping and system stability. 6) Implementation of Kafka-based framework for efficient processing of streaming data using Linux-based local virtual environment.

The technology of Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG), which can make the inverter connected to distributed generation work like traditional synchronous generator, plays an important role in improving the stability of the power system because of its good voltage and frequency supporting capability. In this paper, an improved VSG control method is proposed, which can ensure seamless transfer between grid-connected and stand-alone modes, and achieve accurate tracking control of active and reactive power. The control topology and mathematical model of VSG are constructed firstly based on the rotation equation and electrical equation of synchronous generator; then, the corresponding VSG active-frequency droop control, reactive-voltage droop control and inner loop voltage-current control are designed, and the influences of key parameters are analyzed through frequency domain method. Finally, two simulations with different operation modes and loads are conducted to verify the effectiveness in Matlab/Simulink environment, and the results show that the performance is well.

The high integration of distributed generation (DG) system based on renewable energy sources (RES) in the power system requires changes regarding the control mode of these sources with some urgency. Such changes seek to maintain the stability of the power systems. Thus, there is a demand for using control techniques on DGs/RESs that can mitigate the disturbances caused by low inertia and the lack of control over the dispatched powers. As a solution, one can use virtual synchronous generator (VSG) techniques making the voltage source inverter (VSI) control behave similarly to the traditional synchronous generator (SG). This paper presents a literature review and performance tests for the main VSG topologies used in DGs/RESs: ISE, VSYNC, VISMA and Synchronverter. The implementation of VSG in the DGs/RESs has made possible increase inertia in the grid and, additionally regulate the active and reactive powers separately and bidirectionally. So, it has been possible to meet power system requirements; being able to operation both grid-connected or island-mode, which is ideal for microgrids. The results obtained confirm the literature reports. It was observed that the Synchronverter topology presented advantages over the other VSG topologies.

The increasing penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) into power systems has transformed the landscape of energy distribution, bringing both opportunities and significant challenges. This study examines the impact of DER integration on power system stability, focusing on voltage stability, frequency stability, and transient stability. A comprehensive review of 50 high-quality studies from peer-reviewed journals and reputable conference proceedings was conducted, utilizing advanced modeling, simulation, and empirical analysis methods. The findings reveal that the intermittent nature of renewable DERs, such as solar and wind, leads to voltage fluctuations, necessitating advanced control strategies to maintain stability. Additionally, the displacement of traditional synchronous generators by inverter-based DERs reduces system inertia, posing severe frequency stability challenges that require innovative solutions like synthetic inertia and fast frequency response mechanisms. Transient stability issues are also exacerbated by DER integration, highlighting the need for advanced inverter controls and enhanced fault ride-through capabilities. Energy storage systems (ESS) are identified as crucial for buffering the variability of renewable DERs, providing essential services such as frequency regulation and voltage support. However, high costs and scalability issues remain barriers to widespread ESS adoption. The study underscores the importance of supportive regulatory and policy frameworks in facilitating the seamless integration of DERs while maintaining grid stability. Effective policies that promote smart grid technologies and DER-friendly regulations are essential for ensuring a stable, resilient, and sustainable power grid. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics introduced by DERs and offers insights into developing robust strategies to address stability challenges in modern power systems.

Low frequency oscillation (LFO) is dangerous for power systems secure operation. Over the past decades, installations of power system stabilizer (PSS) on synchronous generator (SG) exciter or flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) are widely-used methods in electrical power industry to suppress power system oscillation and improve the system oscillation stability. But with the rapid increase of renewable energy sources, more and more power electronic converters with seriously different dynamic characteristics from that of SGs’ are connected and operated in the power system. Thus, the future power system is very likely to generate more complex oscillation phenomenon and system stability problems are maybe more serious than ever before. Under these circumstances, adding supplementary control on these existing power electronic converters is becoming an attractive choice. In this paper, inspired by working principle of the PSS, an improved virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control strategy is presented to damp LFO actively via adaptively adjusting its parameter values of virtual inertia and damping coefficient, according to deviation value and changing rate of its output active power. This idea takes full advantage of flexible adjustability of VSG’s parameters. The effectiveness of the proposed VSG strategy is proved by simulation results, which indicates remarkable performance in fast damping of LFO.

This paper proposes a novel model for the analysis and design of a virtual synchronous generator (VSGs). To enhance the stability in power systems with distributed generators, the concept of VSG has been proposed. The VSG is designed based on the swing equation of a synchronous generator ignoring the dynamics of current flowing through an interconnection reactor. However, responses obtained with actual system are different from those calculated from the model. It implies that the VSG cannot be correctly analyzed and designed by using the conventional model. This paper constructs an accurate VSG model considering the dynamics of current. Moreover, we address the stability analysis of the VSG and reveal a relation between the parameters of VSG controller and the rated power/energy capacity of energy storage systems equipped with the VSG based on the proposed model. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Renewable power systems dynamic security using a new coordination of frequency control strategy based on virtual synchronous generator and digital frequency protection

A circulating current suppression strategy of VSG based on adaptive virtual complex impedance

In several countries, the wind power penetration increased tremendously in recent years. To ensure the proper functioning of the power system, some grid operators already require the capability to provide inertial response or primary control with wind turbines. This paper discusses the emulated inertial response with wind turbines by means of the synthetic inertia and the droop control strategy. The behavior of the synthetic inertia strategy is determined by the inertial and the droop constant, whereas droop control only has a droop constant. When these strategies are used, it is important to tune the control parameters depending on the power system to which the wind turbines are connected. Simulations show that it is possible to enhance but also to deteriorate the frequency response of the system, dependent on these parameters. For different power system compositions, the optimal inertial constant is always close to zero. This way, the synthetic inertia strategy reduces to a fast droop control strategy. This is an important outcome, as it means that no differentiation of the frequency is needed to obtain an optimal inertial response from the wind turbines, which is beneficial in terms of robustness. Consequently, droop control is a viable alternative for the synthetic inertia.