An approach to arranging primary and secondary control of the operating parameters in microgrids featuring inverter-connected generator sets

Abstract

Various low-power generator sets (GS) are mainly integrated into microgrids by means of inverters coupled with energy storage systems (ESS). ESSs are connected either to the DC busbars of GSs or to the AC busbars of the microgrid, in this case they are equipped with individual inverters. Use of ESS helps balance power in cases of load surge / loadshedding when the microgrid is islanded. This paper overviews approaches to arranging primary and secondary control of the operating parameters of microgrids. It discusses the technical challenges of, and possible solutions for, implementing primary and secondary control in low- and medium-voltage distribution grids featuring inverter-connected GSs. Calculations of electromechanical transients show that inverter-connected GSs have advantages over conventional GSs when used microgrids that are weakly connected to the power system (the external grid) or islanded. In a microgrid featuring inverter-connected GSs, active and reactive power need to be controlled separately as in power systems featuring conventional GSs; implementation of such controls must be adjusted for the parametric and topological characteristics of low- and medium-voltage distribution grids. To address the issues of linked control, this paper proposes a comprehensive approach that adjusts microgrid design for the specifics of inverter-connected GSs, improves inductance, and incorporates algorithmic solutions. It details upon the virtual impedance algorithm, which extends the common principle of droop speed control. Its implementation helps load the GSs and the ESS with adjustments for their installed capacity; it can also simulate the mechanical constant of GS inertia. Primary control has a low margin that mainly comes from the ESS; thus, backups available to secondary control must be used to compensate for the deviations in operating parameters; this is a key challenge of secondary frequency and voltage control in microgrids. When primary and secondary voltage and frequency controls have been duly implemented in a microgrid, its GSs, the ESS, and electricity delivery to the loads within the microgrid can all operate reliably in a variety of operating situations.