Real-time application of grid-forming converters in smart distribution network

Abstract

As the world faces the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, renewable sources of energy have emerged as a viable solution. However, integrating renewable energy into existing power grids poses unique challenges. The availability of solar power depends on sunlight, wind power on wind speed, and this variability can cause instability and fluctuations in the grid, affecting its reliability and performance. Grid-forming converters can overcome this challenge by emulating the behavior of synchronous generators. They control the voltage, frequency, and phase angle of the electricity generated by renewable sources, allowing them to operate in a grid-independent manner. Due to its complex power system dynamics, it is useful to test the systems behavior, which can be achieved with a real-time simulator. In this thesis a study upon four grid-forming converters mathematical model, power dynamics, frequency regulation through a control application and their ability to reach stability is addressed within a nine-bus system. Testing of the research models is done in MATLAB/Simulink and RT-LAB to achieve a broader understanding of the grid-forming converters contribution.