A novel approach for modeling and simulation of hybrid power systems using PLCs and SCADA for hardware in the loop test

Abstract

This paper describes a novel method for Modeling and Simulation of the Renewable energy based Hybrid Power System (HPS) with improved simulation capabilities like Fidelity, Speed, and Real time control in Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) hardware and software. Analysis of HPS dynamics is conventionally done by using Matlab/Simulink. Since the optimal utilization of primary energy sources will increase the level of supply reliability and economy, a real time EMU is needed. However, the conventional way of simulation limits us for real time control equipped with specific embedded hardware, which in turn limits in span of simulation and consume more time for simulation. Besides, various areas of control systems play vital role in the selection of simulator. Also, if the analyzed system is practically implemented, the results may vary, because, the conventional simulation library components are the approximated models for the real time scenarios. This triggers a new thought of bridging the gap between analysis and implementation by using common platforms. As a solution for all of these issues, and as per the contemporary technologies, the proposal is the method for modeling and simulation of HPS dynamics using PLCs, which supports effective control through a real time EMU, SCADA system, and other embedded hardware. The paper focuses on the combination of Photo Voltaic (PV) cell, Fuel cell (FC), and Wind Turbine (WT) systems, for power generation in the proposed HPS. The dynamics are compared with the conventional simulation.