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Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems
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Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (18 January 2018) | Viewed by 97835

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Miguel Castilla

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Electronic Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), 08800 Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
Interests: control of power electronics converters; distributed control systems; networked control systems; distributed generation systems; power quality

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are inviting submissions to the Energies Special Issue on “Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems”.

Modern distributed generation systems offer flexible operation, high efficiency and high power quality. A key element in achieving this superior performance is the control system. In this application, the control system receives information about the system status in real-time through local measures and by the communication service, makes decisions to reach the control objectives (for instance, maximum power extraction, output voltage and frequency regulation, reactive power compensation, etc.), and finally send commands to the actuators, usually power electronic converters. This Special Issue of Energies aims at addressing the challenges in control design and implementation, energy management strategies, communication architectures and protocols, and topologies for power electronics-based distributed generation systems. Original submissions focusing on practical issues related to this particular case of networked control systems, including circuit topologies, design techniques and methodologies, and practical implementation aspects are welcome. The issue will include, but is not be limited to:

  • Local control schemes and algorithms for distributed generation systems
  • Centralized and decentralized energy management strategies
  • Communication architectures, protocols and properties of practical applications
  • Topologies of distributed generation systems improving flexibility, efficiency and power quality
  • Practical issues in control design and implementation of distributed generation systems

Dr. Miguel Castilla
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Distributed generation
  • Control design and implementation
  • Communication systems
  • Power electronics
  • Networked control systems

Published Papers (19 papers)

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Research

22 pages, 37831 KiB  
Article
A Method for Distributed Control of Reactive Power and Voltage in a Power Grid: A Game-Theoretic Approach
by Ikponmwosa Idehen, Shiny Abraham and Gregory V. Murphy
Energies 2018, 11(4), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/en11040962 - 17 Apr 2018
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4124
Abstract
The efficiency of a power system is reduced when voltage drops and losses occur along the distribution lines. While the voltage profile across the system buses can be improved by the injection of reactive power, increased line flows and line losses could result [...] Read more.
The efficiency of a power system is reduced when voltage drops and losses occur along the distribution lines. While the voltage profile across the system buses can be improved by the injection of reactive power, increased line flows and line losses could result due to uncontrolled injections. Also, the determination of global optimal settings for all power-system components in large power grids is difficult to achieve. This paper presents a novel approach to the application of game theory as a method for the distributed control of reactive power and voltage in a power grid. The concept of non-cooperative, extensive = form games is used to model the interaction among power-system components that have the capacity to control reactive power flows in the system. A centralized method of control is formulated using an IEEE 6-bus test system, which is further translated to a method for distributed control using the New England 39-bus system. The determination of optimal generator settings leads to an improvement in load-voltage compliance. Finally, renewable-energy (reactive power) sources are integrated to further improve the voltage-compliance level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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22 pages, 9493 KiB  
Article
Stable Operation and Small-Signal Analysis of Multiple Parallel DG Inverters Based on a Virtual Synchronous Generator Scheme
by Bo Zhang, Xiangwu Yan, Dongxue Li, Xueyuan Zhang, Jinzuo Han and Xiangning Xiao
Energies 2018, 11(1), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/en11010203 - 15 Jan 2018
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5391
Abstract
For a high penetration level of distributed energy resources (DERs) in the grid, virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control is applied to the power electronic converters to mimic the rotating mass and damping property of a conventional synchronous generator (SG), which can support virtual [...] Read more.
For a high penetration level of distributed energy resources (DERs) in the grid, virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control is applied to the power electronic converters to mimic the rotating mass and damping property of a conventional synchronous generator (SG), which can support virtual inertia and damping for the power system. For VSG control, a phase locked loop (PLL) is needed to estimate the angular frequency of the point of common coupling (PCC); however, the deviation of PLL will affect the accuracy of the active power reference, and even the VSG stability control. From this perspective, an enhanced active power controller without PLL was proposed for VSG control. Furthermore, an accurate small-signal model of the multiple parallel VSGs system that considers the dynamic characteristics and the changing of a steady state operation point was derived for system analysis and parameter design. Based on this model, the influence rules of the eigenvalues by droop and virtual inertia were acquired. The simulation and experimental results are presented to verify the validity of the proposed active power controller and parameter design rules. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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4150 KiB  
Article
Performance Comparison of Grid-Faulty Control Schemes for Inverter-Based Industrial Microgrids
by Antonio Camacho, Miguel Castilla, Franco Canziani, Carlos Moreira, Paulo Coelho, Mario Gomes and Pedro E. Mercado
Energies 2017, 10(12), 2096; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10122096 - 11 Dec 2017
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4062
Abstract
Several control schemes specifically designed to operate inverter-based industrial microgrids during voltage sags have been recently proposed. This paper first classifies these control schemes in three categories and then performs a comparative analysis of them. Representative control schemes of each category are selected, [...] Read more.
Several control schemes specifically designed to operate inverter-based industrial microgrids during voltage sags have been recently proposed. This paper first classifies these control schemes in three categories and then performs a comparative analysis of them. Representative control schemes of each category are selected, described and used to identify the main features and performance of the considered category. The comparison is based on the evaluation of several indexes, which measure the power quality of the installation and utility grid during voltage sags, including voltage regulation, reactive current injection and transient response. The paper includes selected simulation results from a 500 kVA industrial microgrid to validate the expected features of the considered control schemes. Finally, in view of the obtained results, the paper proposes an alternative solution to cope with voltage sags, which includes the use of a static compensator in parallel with the microgrid. The novelty of this proposal is the suitable selection of the control schemes for both the microgrid and the static compensator. The superior performance of the proposal is confirmed by the analysis of the quality indexes. Its practical limitations are also revealed, showing that the topic studied in this paper is still open for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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6793 KiB  
Article
Using IEC 61850 GOOSE Service for Adaptive ANSI 67/67N Protection in Ring Main Systems with Distributed Energy Resources
by Ángel Silos, Aleix Señís, Ramon Martín De Pozuelo and Agustín Zaballos
Energies 2017, 10(11), 1685; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10111685 - 25 Oct 2017
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7822
Abstract
Smart Grids are electricity networks that use digital technology to co-ordinate the needs and capabilities of all generators, grid operators, end users and electricity market stakeholders in such a way that it can optimize asset utilization and operation while maintaining system reliability, resilience [...] Read more.
Smart Grids are electricity networks that use digital technology to co-ordinate the needs and capabilities of all generators, grid operators, end users and electricity market stakeholders in such a way that it can optimize asset utilization and operation while maintaining system reliability, resilience and stability. However, Smart Grids are increasingly proposing a much more distributed architecture with the integration of multiple Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) that demand different control and protection schemes. In that sense, the implementation of standards such as IEC 61850 and the integration with Ethernet-based communication networks provide novel tools to manage DER efficiently. This paper analyses the potential usage and benefits of ANSI 67/67N protection in combination with Generic Object Oriented Substation Event (GOOSE) communication service, from the standard 61850 of the International Electro-technical Commission (IEC), for providing adaptive network protection, specifying the configuration and implementation and exposing the obtained results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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6983 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study of a Centralized Control Strategy of a DC Microgrid Working in Grid Connected Mode
by Robert Salas-Puente, Silvia Marzal, Raúl González-Medina, Emilio Figueres and Gabriel Garcera
Energies 2017, 10(10), 1627; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10101627 - 17 Oct 2017
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4985
Abstract
The results concerning the integration of a set of power management strategies and serial communications for the efficient coordination of the power converters composing an experimental DC microgrid is presented. The DC microgrid operates in grid connected mode by means of an interlinking [...] Read more.
The results concerning the integration of a set of power management strategies and serial communications for the efficient coordination of the power converters composing an experimental DC microgrid is presented. The DC microgrid operates in grid connected mode by means of an interlinking converter. The overall control is carried out by means of a centralized microgrid controller implemented on a Texas Instruments TMS320F28335 DSP. The main objectives of the applied control strategies are to ensure the extract/inject power limits established by the grid operator as well as the renewable generation limits if it is required; to devise a realistic charging procedure of the energy storage batteries as a function of the microgrid status; to manage sudden changes of the available power from the photovoltaic energy sources, of the load power demand and of the power references established by the central controller; and to implement a load shedding functionality. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed power management methodology allows the control of the power dispatch inside the DC microgrid properly. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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16534 KiB  
Article
A Flexible Experimental Laboratory for Distributed Generation Networks Based on Power Inverters
by Jaume Miret, José Luís García de Vicuña, Ramón Guzmán, Antonio Camacho and Mohammad Moradi Ghahderijani
Energies 2017, 10(10), 1589; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10101589 - 13 Oct 2017
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5444
Abstract
In the recently deregulated electricity market, distributed generation based on renewable sources is becoming more and more relevant. In this area, two main distributed scenarios are focusing the attention of recent research: grid-connected mode, where the generation sources are connected to a grid [...] Read more.
In the recently deregulated electricity market, distributed generation based on renewable sources is becoming more and more relevant. In this area, two main distributed scenarios are focusing the attention of recent research: grid-connected mode, where the generation sources are connected to a grid mainly supplied by big power plants, and islanded mode, where the distributed sources, energy storage devices, and loads compose an autonomous entity that in its general form can be named a microgrid. To conduct a successful research in these two scenarios, it is essential to have a flexible experimental setup. This work deals with the description of a real laboratory setup composed of four nodes that can emulate both scenarios of a distributed generation network. A comprehensive description of the hardware and software setup will be done, focusing especially in the dual-core DSP used for control purposes, which is next to the industry standards and able to emulate real complexities. A complete experimental section will show the main features of the system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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1211 KiB  
Article
Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control for a Three-Phase Shunt Active Power Filter with a Kalman Filter-Based Estimation
by Ramon Guzmán, Luís García de Vicuña, Miguel Castilla, Jaume Miret and Antonio Camacho
Energies 2017, 10(10), 1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10101553 - 10 Oct 2017
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3696
Abstract
In this paper, the finite control set model predictive control is combined with the vector operation technique to be applied in the control of a three-phase active power filter. Typically, in the finite control set technique applied to three-phase power converters, eight different [...] Read more.
In this paper, the finite control set model predictive control is combined with the vector operation technique to be applied in the control of a three-phase active power filter. Typically, in the finite control set technique applied to three-phase power converters, eight different vectors are considered in order to obtain the optimum control signal by minimizing a cost function. On the other hand, the vector operation technique is based on dividing the grid voltage period into six different regions. The main advantage of combining both techniques is that for each region the number of possible voltage vectors to be considered can be reduced to a half, thus reducing the computational load employed by the control algorithm. Besides, in each region, only two phase-legs are switching at high frequency while the remaining phase-leg is maintained to a constant dc-voltage value during this interval. Accordingly, a reduction of the switching losses is obtained. Unlike the typical model predictive control methods which make use of the discrete differential equations of the converter, this method considers a Kalman filter in order to improve the behavior of the closed-loop system in noisy environments. Selected experimental results are exposed in order the demonstrate the validity of the control proposal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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3278 KiB  
Article
Optimal Operation of Microgrids Considering Auto-Configuration Function Using Multiagent System
by Van-Hai Bui, Akhtar Hussain and Hak-Man Kim
Energies 2017, 10(10), 1484; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10101484 - 25 Sep 2017
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4461
Abstract
Monitoring the status of existing devices and identification of newly added devices is required in microgrids to adjust the operation schedule followed by any event or integration of a new device. Therefore, in this paper, automatic reconfiguration of microgrids is considered after the [...] Read more.
Monitoring the status of existing devices and identification of newly added devices is required in microgrids to adjust the operation schedule followed by any event or integration of a new device. Therefore, in this paper, automatic reconfiguration of microgrids is considered after the addition of a new device or change in the operation status of an existing device by using a multiagent system. This capability of the microgrid is named as auto-configuration function, which is performed by the auto-configurator agent. In case of addition of a new device, the auto-configurator agent is responsible for authorization and registration of the newly added device. In case of change in status of any existing device, the status information is updated. After integration of a new device or change in status of an existing device, re-optimization is carried out by the energy management system (EMS) agent. Agent communication language (ACL) is used to develop a modified contract net protocol (MCNP) for communication among different agents. EMS agent and auto-configurator agent exchange information for economic rescheduling of the microgrid components. Simulation results have shown that the proposed method can be used for optimal operation of microgrids when the configuration changes due to the addition/removal of a device. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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3114 KiB  
Article
Directional Overcurrent Relays Coordination Problems in Distributed Generation Systems
by Jakub Ehrenberger and Jan Švec
Energies 2017, 10(10), 1452; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10101452 - 21 Sep 2017
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5559
Abstract
This paper proposes a new approach to the distributed generation system protection coordination based on directional overcurrent protections with inverse-time characteristics. The key question of protection coordination is the determination of correct values of all inverse-time characteristics coefficients. The coefficients must be correctly [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a new approach to the distributed generation system protection coordination based on directional overcurrent protections with inverse-time characteristics. The key question of protection coordination is the determination of correct values of all inverse-time characteristics coefficients. The coefficients must be correctly chosen considering the sufficiently short tripping times and the sufficiently long selectivity times. In the paper a new approach to protection coordination is designed, in which not only some, but all the required types of short-circuit contributions are taken into account. In radial systems, if the pickup currents are correctly chosen, protection coordination for maximum contributions is enough to ensure selectivity times for all the required short-circuit types. In distributed generation systems, due to different contributions flowing through the primary and selective protections, coordination for maximum contributions is not enough, but all the short-circuit types must be taken into account, and the protection coordination becomes a complex problem. A possible solution to the problem, based on an appropriately designed optimization, has been proposed in the paper. By repeating a simple optimization considering only one short-circuit type, the protection coordination considering all the required short-circuit types has been achieved. To show the importance of considering all the types of short-circuit contributions, setting optimizations with one (the highest) and all the types of short-circuit contributions have been performed. Finally, selectivity time values are explored throughout the entire protected section, and both the settings are compared. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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465 KiB  
Article
Control Strategies for Improving Energy Efficiency and Reliability in Autonomous Microgrids with Communication Constraints
by Francisco Martins Portelinha Júnior, Antonio Carlos Zambroni de Souza, Miguel Castilla, Denisson Queiroz Oliveira and Paulo Fernando Ribeiro
Energies 2017, 10(9), 1443; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10091443 - 19 Sep 2017
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4689
Abstract
Microgrids are a feasible path to deploy smart grids, an intelligent and highly automated power system. Their operation demands a dedicated communication infrastructure to manage, control and monitor the intermittent sources of energy and loads. Therefore, smart devices will be connected to support [...] Read more.
Microgrids are a feasible path to deploy smart grids, an intelligent and highly automated power system. Their operation demands a dedicated communication infrastructure to manage, control and monitor the intermittent sources of energy and loads. Therefore, smart devices will be connected to support the growth of grid smartness increasing the dependency on communication networks, which consumes a high amount of power. In an energy-limited scenario, one of the main issues is to enhance the power supply time. Therefore, this paper proposes a hybrid methodology for microgrid energy management, integrated with a communication infrastructure to improve and to optimize islanded microgrid operation at maximum energy efficiency. The hybrid methodology applies some control management rules, such as intentional load shedding, priority load management, and communication energy saving. These energy saving rules establish a trade-off between increasing microgrid energy availability and communication system reliability. To achieve a compromised solution, a continuous time Markov chain model describes the impact of energy saving policies into system reliability. The proposed methodology is simulated and tested with the help of the modified IEEE 34 node test-system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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2083 KiB  
Article
Determining the Optimal Configuration of the Multi-Ring Tree for Bluetooth Multi-Hop Networks
by Chih-Min Yu and Ting-Wei Hsu
Energies 2017, 10(9), 1339; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10091339 - 05 Sep 2017
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3050
Abstract
In this work, a multi-ring tree algorithm is proposed for Bluetooth low-energy networks with non-uniform distribution of devices. In a dense area, a leader root is elected during the leader election phase and a min-path algorithm is introduced to determine the optimal number [...] Read more.
In this work, a multi-ring tree algorithm is proposed for Bluetooth low-energy networks with non-uniform distribution of devices. In a dense area, a leader root is elected during the leader election phase and a min-path algorithm is introduced to determine the optimal number of rings for various numbers of discoverable roots. According to the optimal configuration, the leader root connects to its one-hop neighboring roots to form the first-tier ring; each new root connects with one downstream root, and these roots connect together to form the second-tier ring until the desired outermost ring is reached. In sparse areas, each root constructs its own spanning tree subnet, finally creating a multi-ring tree scatternet. To achieve the least route discovery overhead, a multi-hop self-routing protocol is developed to efficiently deliver packets. Computer simulations show that the optimal multi-ring subnet can be determined; the optimal multi-ring tree outperforms conventional dual ring-tree (DRT) and Bluetooth hybrid ring-tree (BlueHRT) in terms of network performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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5965 KiB  
Article
A Novel Locality Algorithm and Peer-to-Peer Communication Infrastructure for Optimizing Network Performance in Smart Microgrids
by Silvia Marzal, Raul González-Medina, Robert Salas-Puente, Emilio Figueres and Gabriel Garcerá
Energies 2017, 10(9), 1275; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10091275 - 27 Aug 2017
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5472
Abstract
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) overlay communications networks have emerged as a new paradigm for implementing distributed services in microgrids due to their potential benefits: they are robust, scalable, fault-tolerant, and they can route messages even when a large number of nodes are frequently entering or [...] Read more.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) overlay communications networks have emerged as a new paradigm for implementing distributed services in microgrids due to their potential benefits: they are robust, scalable, fault-tolerant, and they can route messages even when a large number of nodes are frequently entering or leaving the network. However, current P2P systems have been mainly developed for file sharing or cycle sharing applications where the processes of searching and managing resources are not optimized. Locality algorithms have gained a lot of attention due to their potential to provide an optimized path to groups with similar interests for routing messages in order to achieve better network performance. This paper develops a fully functional decentralized communication architecture with a new P2P locality algorithm and a specific protocol for monitoring and control of microgrids. Experimental results show that the proposed locality algorithm reduces the number of lookup messages and the lookup delay time. Moreover, the proposed communication architecture heavily depends of the lookup used algorithm as well as the placement of the communication layers within the architecture. Experimental results will show that the proposed techniques meet the network requirements of smart microgrids, even with a large number of nodes on stream. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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4535 KiB  
Article
Modelling and Control of Parallel-Connected Transformerless Inverters for Large Photovoltaic Farms
by Marian Liberos, Raúl González-Medina, Gabriel Garcerá and Emilio Figueres
Energies 2017, 10(8), 1242; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10081242 - 21 Aug 2017
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4453
Abstract
This paper presents a control structure for transformerless photovoltaic inverters connected in parallel to manage photovoltaic fields in the MW range. Large photovoltaic farms are usually divided into several photovoltaic fields, each one of them managed by a centralized high power inverter. The [...] Read more.
This paper presents a control structure for transformerless photovoltaic inverters connected in parallel to manage photovoltaic fields in the MW range. Large photovoltaic farms are usually divided into several photovoltaic fields, each one of them managed by a centralized high power inverter. The current tendency to build up centralized inverters in the MW range is the use of several transformerless inverters connected in parallel, a topology that provokes the appearance of significant zero-sequence circulating currents among inverters. To eliminate this inconvenience, this paper proposes a control structure that avoids the appearance of circulating currents by controlling the zero-sequence component of the inverters. A second contribution of the paper is the development of a model of n parallel-connected inverters. To validate the concept, the proposed control structure has been applied to a photovoltaic field of 2 MW managed by four 500 kW photovoltaic inverters connected in parallel. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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2193 KiB  
Article
An Improved Droop Control Strategy Based on Changeable Reference in Low-Voltage Microgrids
by Chunxia Dou, Zhanqiang Zhang, Dong Yue and Hanxiao Gao
Energies 2017, 10(8), 1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10081080 - 26 Jul 2017
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3989
Abstract
This paper proposes an improved droop control strategy based on changeable reference in low-voltage microgrids. To restore running frequency of distributed generation to a rated value without affecting its reactive power output, changeable frequency reference, mainly compensating for frequency deviation, are proposed corresponding [...] Read more.
This paper proposes an improved droop control strategy based on changeable reference in low-voltage microgrids. To restore running frequency of distributed generation to a rated value without affecting its reactive power output, changeable frequency reference, mainly compensating for frequency deviation, are proposed corresponding to various load demands. In terms of active power sharing inaccuracy associated with mismatched line impedance, changeable voltage amplitude reference is proposed to obtain a droop line suitable for the actual voltage of distributed generations. By further improvement of the active droop coefficient, power sharing is accurate with a difference in actual voltages of distributed generations. Virtual negative inductance is used to neutralize the redundant line inductance for strictly improving sharing accuracy. A robust control method based on Lyapunov function is used to handle the robustness problem in case of load variation. The control scheme is entirely decentralized, so communication links among distributed generations are redundant. Finally, simulation studies demonstrate the effectiveness of a control strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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8094 KiB  
Article
Finite Control Set–Model Predictive Control with Modulation to Mitigate Harmonic Component in Output Current for a Grid-Connected Inverter under Distorted Grid Conditions
by Tien Hai Nguyen and Kyeong-Hwa Kim
Energies 2017, 10(7), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10070907 - 02 Jul 2017
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4503
Abstract
This paper presents an improved current control strategy for a three-phase grid-connected inverter under distorted grid conditions. In terms of performance, it is important for a grid-connected inverter to maintain the harmonic contents of inverter output currents below the specified limit even when [...] Read more.
This paper presents an improved current control strategy for a three-phase grid-connected inverter under distorted grid conditions. In terms of performance, it is important for a grid-connected inverter to maintain the harmonic contents of inverter output currents below the specified limit even when the grid is subject to harmonic distortion. To address this problem, this paper proposes a modulated finite control set–model predictive control (FCS-MPC) scheme, which effectively mitigates the harmonic components in output current of a grid-connected inverter. In the proposed scheme, the system behavior in the future is predicted from the system model in the discrete-time domain. Then, the cost function is selected based on the control objective of system. This cost function is minimized during the optimization process to determine the control signals that minimize the cost function. In addition, since the proposed scheme requires pure sinusoidal reference currents in the stationary frame to work successfully, the moving average filter (MAF) is employed to enhance the performance of the traditional phase lock loop (PLL). Due to the control performance of the FCS-MPC scheme as well as the harmonic disturbance rejection capability of the MAF-PLL, the proposed scheme is able to suppress the harmonic distortion even in the presence of distorted grid condition, while retaining fast transient response. Comparative simulation results of different controllers verify the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme in compensating the harmonic disturbance. To validate the practical feasibility of the proposed scheme, the whole control algorithm is implemented on a 32-bit floating-point digital signal processor (DSP) TMS320F28335 to control a 2 kW three-phase grid-connected inverter. As a result, the proposed scheme is a promising approach toward improving the current quality of a grid-connected inverter under distorted grid conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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340 KiB  
Article
An Efficient Reactive Power Control Method for Power Network Systems with Solar Photovoltaic Generators Using Sparse Optimization
by Yu Li and Masato Ishikawa
Energies 2017, 10(5), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10050696 - 16 May 2017
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4048
Abstract
With the incremental introduction of solar photovoltaic (PV) generators into existing power systems, and their fast-growing share in the gross electricity generation, system voltage stability has become a critical issue. One of the major concerns is voltage fluctuation, due to large and random [...] Read more.
With the incremental introduction of solar photovoltaic (PV) generators into existing power systems, and their fast-growing share in the gross electricity generation, system voltage stability has become a critical issue. One of the major concerns is voltage fluctuation, due to large and random penetration of solar PV generators. To suppress severe system voltage deviation, reactive power control of the photovoltaic system inverter has been widely proposed in recent works; however, excessive use of reactive power control would increase both initial and operating costs. In this paper, a method for efficient allocation and control of reactive power injection using the sparse optimization technique is proposed. Based on a constrained linearized model describing the influence of reactive power injection on voltage magnitude change, the objective of this study is formulated as an optimization problem, which aims to find the best reactive power injection that minimizes the whole system voltage variation. Two types of formulations are compared: the first one is the conventional least-square optimization, while the second one is adopted from a sparse optimization technique, called the constrained least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method. The constrained LASSO method adds ℓ 1 -norm penalty to the total reactive power injection, which contributes to the suppression of the number of control nodes with non-zero reactive power injection. The authors analyzed the effectiveness of the constrained LASSO method using the IEEE 39-bus and 57-bus power network as benchmark examples, under various PV power generation and allocation patterns. The simulation results show that the constrained LASSO method automatically selects the minimum number of inverters required for voltage regulation at the current operating point. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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4553 KiB  
Article
An Improved LCL Filter Design in Order to Ensure Stability without Damping and Despite Large Grid Impedance Variations
by Marwa Ben Said-Romdhane, Mohamed Wissem Naouar, Ilhem Slama Belkhodja and Eric Monmasson
Energies 2017, 10(3), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10030336 - 09 Mar 2017
Cited by 68 | Viewed by 8973
Abstract
With the smart grid revolution, there is a growing interest in the use of power converters associated to LCL filters to interface between the main utility grid and loads or renewable energy sources. LCL filters are commonly used mainly due to their low [...] Read more.
With the smart grid revolution, there is a growing interest in the use of power converters associated to LCL filters to interface between the main utility grid and loads or renewable energy sources. LCL filters are commonly used mainly due to their low cost and high filtering performances. To achieve these performances, it is necessary to meticulously pick out the LCL filter parameters, taking into account grid code requirements and grid configuration and/or conditions. Several methodologies for LCL filter design have been presented and discussed in the literature. The main goal of this paper is to propose a simple, robust and systematic design methodology for LCL filter parameter tuning. The considered design methodology is aimed to overcome the shortcomings of classical design methodologies, namely, stable operation under different grid configurations and conditions. Compared to previous works, the proposed design methodology allows the achievement of robust LCL filter design with regard to large grid impedance variations without the use of any damping method. Also, it takes into account accuracy of capacitor standard values and proposes a simple design method for the converter side inductor that avoids saturation problems. An example of LCL filter design is presented and discussed. The obtained filter parameters were firstly tested using a Matlab-Simulink software tool. After that, they were tested through the development of an experimental set-up. The obtained simulation and experimental results show the reliability and efficiency of the proposed design methodology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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19081 KiB  
Article
An Active Power Filter Based on a Three-Level Inverter and 3D-SVPWM for Selective Harmonic and Reactive Compensation
by José Luis Monroy-Morales, David Campos-Gaona, Máximo Hernández-Ángeles, Rafael Peña-Alzola and José Leonardo Guardado-Zavala
Energies 2017, 10(3), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/en10030297 - 03 Mar 2017
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7430
Abstract
Active Power Filters (APFs) have been used for reducing waveform distortion and improving power quality. However, this function can be improved by means of a selective harmonic compensation. Since an APF has rating restrictions, it is convenient to have the option of selecting [...] Read more.
Active Power Filters (APFs) have been used for reducing waveform distortion and improving power quality. However, this function can be improved by means of a selective harmonic compensation. Since an APF has rating restrictions, it is convenient to have the option of selecting an individual or a set of particular harmonics in order to compensate and apply the total APF capabilities to eliminate these harmonics, in particular those with a greater impact on the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). This paper presents the development of a new APF prototype based on a three-phase three-level Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) inverter with selective harmonic compensation capabilities and reactive power compensation. The selective harmonic compensation approach uses several Synchronous Rotating Frames (SRF), to detect and control individual or a set of harmonics using d and q variables. The APF includes a Three-Dimensional Space Vector Modulator (3D-SVPWM) in order to generate the compensation currents. Because of its multilevel topology, the proposed active power filter can be used in diverse power quality applications at sub-transmission and distribution voltage levels. Simulation and experimental results are shown to validate the proposed solution and assess the prototype performance in different scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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7551 KiB  
Article
Novel Auto-Reclosing Blocking Method for Combined Overhead-Cable Lines in Power Networks
by Ricardo Granizo Arrabé, Carlos Antonio Platero Gaona, Fernando Álvarez Gómez and Emilio Rebollo López
Energies 2016, 9(11), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/en9110964 - 17 Nov 2016
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4718
Abstract
This paper presents a novel auto-reclosing blocking method for combined overhead-cable lines in power distribution networks that are solidly or impedance grounded, with distribution transformers in a delta connection in their high-voltage sides. The main contribution of this new technique is that it [...] Read more.
This paper presents a novel auto-reclosing blocking method for combined overhead-cable lines in power distribution networks that are solidly or impedance grounded, with distribution transformers in a delta connection in their high-voltage sides. The main contribution of this new technique is that it can detect whether a ground fault has been produced at the overhead line side or at the cable line side, thus improving the performance of the auto-reclosing functionality. This localization technique is based on the measurements and analysis of the argument differences between the load currents in the active conductors of the cable and the currents in the shields at the cable end where the transformers in delta connection are installed, including a wavelet analysis. This technique has been verified through computer simulations and experimental laboratory tests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Communication in Distributed Generation Systems)
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