Online Grid Impedance Estimation-Based Adaptive Control of Virtual Synchronous Generators Considering Strong and Weak Grid Conditions

Abstract

The conventional virtual synchronous generator (VSG) is typically designed to meet certain operational and control requirements in the islanded mode. However, once the VSG is switched to grid-connected mode (GCM), the robust operation cannot be guaranteed under different grid conditions. It can lead to poor dynamic performance, especially in strong grids, such as significant oscillation, long settling time, and large overshoot. To improve the VSG performance in the GCM, this article first analyzes in depth the inherent coupling between the active and reactive power and its dependence on grid conditions, such as the short circuit ratio and the grid impedance ratio. Subsequently, an adaptive VSG (AVSG) control strategy based on online grid impedance estimation is proposed to ensure robust operation of the VSG considering both strong and weak grid conditions. This technique allows the operator to specify the desired settling time of the output power and damping ratio. To estimate the grid impedance in real time without additional hardware and reduce the associated impacts on power quality, an online event-based grid impedance estimation algorithm is embedded in the control loop of the AVSG. The simulation and experimental results indicate that, compared with the conventional fixed-parameters-based controller design method, the AVSG exhibits desired performance such as no oscillation, specified time duration for the settling time, and minimal overshoot regardless of the grid conditions.