Grid-forming power converters

Research Project, 2020 –

The aim of the work package is to investigate control solutions to provide power-electronics converters the same grid forming functionalities of a traditional synchronous generator, in order to facilitate integration of renewable energy sources. Different control structures will be analysed and compared in terms of performance against large variations of the short-circuit impedance of the grid at the converter’s connection point, ability to ride-through faults and
robustness against harmonic interaction with other converters. The final goal of the work package is to develop a control structure that goes beyond the concept of “virtual synchronous machine”. Possible future requirements from Transmission and Distribution System Operators will be considered. The impact of the different control strategies on the converter and energy storage requirements will be a decisive factor in the final selection. The project will be run in tight cooperation with both industrial (ABB) and academic (Loyola
University) partners.