Abstract
Reliability is a key consideration when microgrid technology is implemented in military applications. Droop control provides a simple option without requiring communication between microgrid components, increasing the control system reliability. However, traditional droop control does not allow the microgrid to utilize much of the power available from a solar resource. This paper applies an optimal multidimensional droop control strategy for a solar resource connected in a microgrid at a military patrol base. Simulation and hardware-in-the-loop experiments of a sample microgrid show that much more power from the solar resource can be utilized, while maintaining the system’s bus voltage around a nominal value, and still avoiding the need for communication between the various components.
Highlights
The microgrid concept is increasingly being investigated and implemented in military contexts.Research has been conducted on the topic of implementing microgrids at fixed military installations within the United States [1,2]
Three sources are included; one is a solar resource, one is a conventional resource such as a diesel generator, and one is an energy storage source such as a battery. These sources are modeled as variable voltage sources, and droop control is implemented for each
A comparison of Figures 5 and 6 shows that the use of traditional linear droop control limits the amount of power that can be utilized from the solar resource, while the use of optimal high dimension droop control allows all of the available power from that resource to be utilized
Summary
The microgrid concept is increasingly being investigated and implemented in military contexts. Specific examples include intermediate staging bases (ISB), forward operating bases (FOB), combat outposts (COP), observation posts (OP), and patrol bases (PB) [3,4,5]. These may be permanent or temporary bases used by the military while on assignment in foreign countries. Using the improved droop control methods presented in this paper can allow a military microgrid to utilize as much renewable resources as possible, without relying. Previous work has demonstrated the use of multidimensional [11] optimal [12] droop control with wind resources, in a residential microgrid setting. A load model for a typical patrol base is presented, and used in simulation of a military microgrid example to demonstrate the proposed controller
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
