Integration of DC Microgrids as Virtual Synchronous Machines Into the AC Grid

Abstract

A smart and autonomous integration concept for dc microgrids into the legacy ac grid is proposed based on the virtual synchronous machine (VSM) concept. It utilizes a dc–ac converter as a universal VSM-based interface (VSMBI) between the ac grid and various distributed energy resources (DER) connected on the dc side. The control strategy of it includes: 1) a frequency regulation improved from previous VSM works, which is suitable for the microgrid integration; 2) an improved dual droop control between the ac frequency and the dc side energy storages; 3) a power system stabilizer to enhance the system stability. Under this concept, the VSMBI integrates the DERs, loads and energy storages in the dc microgrid into a VSM. The VSMBI and the dc microgrid together will respond to short-term and long-term requirements of the grid frequency regulation, and achieve autonomous power management for the ac grid and the dc microgrid. It is therefore an important step forward in supporting high DER penetration. The concept, its design and small-signal analysis are presented in this paper. Its effectiveness and functions are verified by simulation and experimental results.