Islanded Microgrid Research Articles

Optimal management in island microgrids using D-FACTS devices with large-scale two-population algorithm

Amidst the increasing complexity of microgrid optimization, characterized by numerous decision variables and intricate non-linear relationships, there is a pressing need for highly efficient algorithms. This study introduces a tailored Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) model that optimizes the charging and discharging schedules of electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS) while incorporating Distributed Flexible AC Transmission System (D-FACTS) devices. To address these challenges, a novel approach based on the Large-Scale Two-Population Algorithm (LSTPA) is proposed. The model's effectiveness was evaluated using a 33-node microgrid, where the proposed method achieved a total purchased energy of 1.2 MWh, a voltage deviation of 0.0357 p.u, and a CPU time of 551 s, outperforming traditional methods like NSGA-II, PSO, and JAYA. Additionally, in a 69-node microgrid, the approach resulted in a total purchased energy of 0.3 MWh and a voltage deviation of 0.0078 p.u. These results demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed method in terms of energy efficiency, voltage stability, and computational time, advancing the efficiency of microgrid management.

Load Frequency PID Controller Design Based on Pole Placement Method of an Islanded Microgrid

Load Frequency PID Controller Design Based on Pole Placement Method of an Islanded Microgrid

Utility-Scale Grid-Connected Microgrid Planning Framework for Sustainable Renewable Energy Integration

Microgrids have emerged as a crucial focus in power engineering and sustainable energy research, with utility-scale microgrids playing a significant role in both developed and developing countries like the Philippines. This study presents a comprehensive framework for utility-scale microgrid planning, emphasizing the sustainable integration of renewable energy resources to the distribution grid. The framework addresses the operational modes of grid-connected and islanded microgrids, emphasizing the seamless transition between these modes to ensure a continuous power supply. By leveraging local distributed energy resources, the microgrid aims to reduce dependence on the main transmission grid while enhancing resilience and reliability. The proposed planning framework not only eases the economic burden of constructing renewable energy sources but also aids distribution utilities in maximizing local resources to achieve sustainable energy goals. Through a detailed network analysis and modeling, the framework provides a robust foundation for optimizing the energy mix and enhancing the overall system performance. This research contributes to advancing microgrid technology as a key driver towards achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in promoting clean and affordable energy access.

Long short‐term memory‐based forecasting of uncertain parameters in an islanded hybrid microgrid and its energy management using improved grey wolf optimization algorithm

AbstractAn islanded hybrid AC‐DC microgrid interconnects renewable energy sources, distributed generators, and energy storage, primarily for remote areas without grid access. Its reliability depends on variable renewable output and load demand, while an energy management system optimizes power scheduling and reduces costs. In the first phase of this paper, uncertainty parameters like day‐ahead power from renewable energy sources (RES) and load demand (LD) are forecasted using the long short‐term memory (LSTM) deep learning algorithm. The LSTM outperforms the artificial neural network (ANN) model in terms of mean square error (MSE) and prediction accuracy (R2) for both training and testing datasets. In the second phase, the forecasted RES power and LD are used for optimal distributed generator (DG) scheduling using the improved grey wolf optimization (IGWO) algorithm. The objective of energy management in an islanded hybrid microgrid (HMG) is to minimize daily operating costs by considering load demand and the bidding costs of energy sources and storage devices. Two operational scenarios are evaluated to minimize the operating costs and optimize battery life. The proposed method, validated with IEEE standard test systems, is compared against several metaheuristic techniques. Results demonstrate that the improved grey wolf optimization (IGWO) algorithm is more effective at reducing costs and provides faster optimal solutions.

Three-stage resilience enhancement via optimal dispatch and reconfiguration for a microgrid

Extreme weather causes an increase in power system failure. Previous studies on system resilience have often overlooked the user-side of a microgrid. This study proposes composite resilience indices (RI) based on the power supply of a large-scale manufacturing campus microgrid to quantify its ability to withstand extreme events. The proposed RI consider load priority, minimum supply load, total energy supplied, and the performance recovery-to-degradation slope ratio in an islanding microgrid. Accordingly, this study presents a three-stage resilience optimal dispatch and reconfiguration strategy, including energy-level scheduling, grid-level reconfiguration, and dynamic-level verification. A multi-objective optimization approach is used for energy scheduling, followed by system reconfiguration via DIgSILENT system modeling to meet the grid code and maximize load supply. Value at Risk methods are used to verify microgrid stability and load shedding requirements, supported by the virtual synchronous generator control of the energy storage system. The test results from a practical large-scale manufacturing campus microgrid validate the proposed approaches for enhancing system resilience considering load values.

Fractional order slide mode droop control for simultaneous voltage and frequency regulation of AC microgrid

AbstractThis research proposes the application of fractional‐order sliding mode control (FOSMC) at the primary controller level to improve the stability of an islanded microgrid by adjusting its voltage and frequency. The control strategies used in the microgrid are performed in two levels (primary and secondary) in the islanded mode. Practically, most previous studies have worked to improve the primary controller. Droop control is one of the most commonly used methods at the primary level and is adopted in this study as well. The sliding mode control (SMC) strategy is normally used to control linear equations. Thus, the non‐linear microgrid equations were transformed into some linear ones using the input‐output feedback linearization technique. Further, a fractional sliding surface was acquainted. The sliding surface and FOSMC were designed to reject system uncertainties and organize the voltage and frequency. Design parameters were chosen using the Lyapunov stability theorem. The validation of the proposed method using Simulink‐MATLAB confirms its effectiveness in enhancing level power sharing, regulating frequency, and maintaining voltage stability across the system.

Practical solutions for microgrid energy management: Integrating solar forecasting and correction algorithms

Nowadays, the shift towards renewable energies is happening at an exponential pace. Microgrids are an integral part in integrating renewable energies into the global energy mix. Due to the volatility of renewables, such as solar or wind, proper energy management is needed to avoid generation or load curtailment. This issue is addressed throughout the literature using a wide variety of strategies, ranging from classical linear to nature inspired metaheuristic optimization algorithms. This paper goes beyond the simulation phase of different optimization algorithms and addresses the optimal energy management problem by proposing a novel framework to integrate optimization strategies into the daily operation of microgrids. The proposed framework showcases 3 practical methods for controlling the distributed generators, as well as a communication scheme which facilitates the data transfer between the machine running the optimization strategy and the energy management system of the microgrid. The framework is demonstrated on a small-scale islanded microgrid setup, located at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca. The microgrid setup consists of a photovoltaic array, a battery energy storage system and two dispatchable generators. A two-stage optimization strategy is used, consisting of a day-ahead stage, which uses the solar forecast provided by the Global Forecast System, prior to each day, to issue a working plan for the dispatchable generators, and an intra-day stage, which uses hourly solar forecasts, issued during the day, to adjust the operation of the microgrid and minimize the error between the day-ahead solar forecast and the actual weather conditions. Mixed integer linear programming is used to solve the optimization problem and validate the correct operation of the proposed framework over two case studies. The results show that the microgrid works as intended, in both scenarios, as well as the benefits of using an intra-day correction stage.

A dual-standby power source configuration scheme for micro grid in Pelagic Island

Realizing clean energy supply is important for the sustainable development of pelagic island. The volatility and randomness features of renewable energy generation may reduce power supply reliability, thus backup units is necessary in micro-grid in pelagic island. This paper proposed a dual-standby configuration scheme based on Sequence Operation Theory to achieve reliable power standby. Firstly, characteristics of standby units, micro gas turbine and diesel generator, are analyzed. Next, the probability distribution function models of wind, photovoltaic and load demand in pelagic island are established, and the reliability index of power shortage probability is calculated by Sequence Operation Theory. Then, the two-stage dual-standby control scheme to make full use of the complementary standby units is introduced and object function to minimize equivalent annual cost on the premise of satisfying probabilistic reliability index is modeled. Hybrid integer particle swarm algorithm is used to solve the problem. Finally, the proposed model for dual-standby configuration is applied to a pelagic island. The simulation results show that the proposed method can meet the load demand in both daily and extreme weather and achieve superior economy.

Lyapunov-based distributed secondary frequency and voltage control for distributed energy resources in islanded microgrids with expected dynamic performance improvement

Microgrids (MGs) can effectively integrate the high penetration distributed energy resources (DERs) for the energy and environmental crisis. Still, fluctuations in intermittent DERs may lead to severe frequency and voltage deviations or even the instability of islanded MGs. Secondary control has successfully compensated for the frequency and voltage deviations. Research on secondary control mainly focused on steady-state operating objectives, i.e., frequency and voltage recovery and power sharing. Still, improving the dynamic responses of secondary control is crucial for system-stable operation, especially in the presence of synchronous DERs. This is because these units can cause undesired oscillatory modes, leading to system instability. In addition, because of the line impedance effect, accurate reactive power sharing is usually ignored when voltage recovery is considered. This will lead to an overload of MGs. To improve the dynamics of secondary control while trading off voltage regulation and reactive power sharing, we propose a Lyapunov-Function (LF)–based distributed secondary control strategy. In the proposed LF-based control strategy, the frequency, voltage, and power information are introduced into feedback control based on the Lyapunov stability theorem. Therefore, the improved frequency and voltage deviations and accurate power sharing can be guaranteed when the Lyapunov function asymptotically attenuates to zero. The inherent conflict between voltage regulation and reactive power sharing is addressed by converging the average voltage to the rated reference. Besides, the improved dynamic performance of secondary control is achieved by considering global power variations, which are obtained by distribution-level phasor measurement units. Global power variations can establish control actions to dampen system oscillations and accelerate system restoration. Furthermore, the controller design method based on the Lyapunov stability theorem can naturally promise the stability of the proposed secondary frequency and voltage controllers. Numerical simulations on the IEEE 34-bus system validate that the proposed control strategy can ensure the significantly improved dynamic performance of secondary control while achieving steady-state operation objectives.

Resilient distributed secondary control for islanded AC microgrids under FDI attacks

For islanded AC microgrids under bounded and time-varying false data injection (FDI) attacks on actuators and communication links, a resilient distributed secondary control strategy is proposed to stabilize frequency and voltage at the reference values, and to achieve the optimal active power sharing. To mitigate the impact of FDI attacks on the stability of the islanded microgrid, extended-state observers are introduced to estimate the impact. Compared with the currently presented resilient distributed control strategies, which ensure the bounded stability of microgrids, the control objective that the synchronization of every distributed generator’s voltage and frequency to the reference values and the achievement of the optimal active power sharing is maintained by the proposed resilient control strategy. An example of an islanded AC microgrid is given to verify the proposed method.

Maiden application of mountaineering team-based optimization algorithm optimized 1PD-PI controller for load frequency control in islanded microgrid with renewable energy sources

Load Frequency Control (LFC) is essential for maintaining the stability of Islanded Microgrids (IMGs) that rely extensively on Renewable Energy Sources (RES). This paper introduces a groundbreaking 1PD-PI (one + Proportional + Derivative-Proportional + Integral) controller, marking its inaugural use in improving LFC performance within IMGs. The creation of this advanced controller stems from the amalgamation of 1PD and PI control strategies. Furthermore, the paper presents the Mountaineering Team Based Optimization (MTBO) algorithm, a novel meta-heuristic technique introduced for the first time to effectively tackle LFC challenges. This algorithm, inspired by principles of intellectual and environmental evolution and coordinated human behavior, is utilized to optimize the controller gains. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is rigorously evaluated within a simulated IMG environment using MATLAB/SIMULINK. This simulated IMG incorporates diverse power generation sources, including Diesel Engine Generators (DEGs), Microturbines (MTs), Fuel Cells (FCs), Energy Storage Systems (ESSs), and RES units like Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs) and Photovoltaics (PVs). This paper employs the Integral Time Multiplied by the Squared Error (ITSE) and Integral of Time Multiplied By Absolute Error (ITAE) indicators as the primary performance metrics, conventionally used to mitigate frequency deviations. To achieve optimal controller parameter tuning, a weighted composite objective function is formulated. This function incorporates multiple components: modified objective functions related to both ITSE and ITAE, along with a term addressing overshoot and settling time. Each component is assigned an appropriate weighting factor to prioritize specific performance aspects. By employing distinct objective functions for different aspects of control performance, the derivation of optimized controller gains is facilitated. The efficacy and contribution of the proposed methodology are rigorously demonstrated within the context of RES-based IMGs, featuring a comparative analysis with well-known optimization algorithms, including Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA). These algorithms are used to optimize the 1PD-PI controller, resulting in three control schemes: 1PD-PI/MTBO, 1PD-PI/WOA, and 1PD-PI/PSO. The effectiveness of these control schemes is evaluated under various loading conditions, incorporating parametric uncertainties and nonlinear factors of physical constraints. Three case studies, presented in eight scenarios (I-VIII), are utilized to comprehensively assess the efficiency, robustness, and sensitivity of the proposed approach. This analysis extends beyond the time domain, considering the stability evaluation of the proposed control scheme. Simulation results unequivocally establish the superior performance of the MTBO algorithm-optimized 1PD-PI controller compared to its counterparts. This superiority is evident in terms of minimized settling time, reduced peak undershoot and overshoot, and enhanced error-integrating performance characteristics within the system responses. Improvements are observed in both the high range and within the 80–90% range for criteria such as overshoot, undershoot, and the numerical values of the objective functions. This paper underscores the practicality and effectiveness of the 1PD-PI/MTBO control scheme, offering valuable insights into the management of frequency disturbances in RES-based IMGs.

Resilient Reinforcement Learning for Voltage Control in an Islanded DC Microgrid Integrating Data-Driven Piezoelectric

This research study presents a resilient control scheme for an islanded DC microgrid (DC MG) integrating solar photovoltaic (PV), battery storage (BESS), and piezoelectric (PE) energy harvesting modules. The microgrid (MG) case study represents an energy hub designed to provide electricity for lighting systems in transportation, roads, and other infrastructure. To enhance practicality, the PE is modeled using the real data captured from a traffic simulator. The proposed reinforcement learning (RL) method was tested against four severe and unexpected failure scenarios, including short circuit at the load side, sudden and severe change of load, open circuit, and converter failure. The performance of the controller was quantitatively compared with a conventional PI controller. The results show marginal improvement in one scenario and significant improvement in the other three, suggesting that the proposed scheme is a robust candidate for microgrids with high levels of uncertainty, such as those involving solar and PE harvesters.

Large-signal stability analysis of an islanded DC microgrid with constant power loads based on mixed potential function

Abstract In DC microgrids, power electronic converters are widely used to connect loads and renewable energy sources to generate different voltages. These loads operate as constant power loads (CPL) within a closed control loop. When voltage fluctuates, these loads display negative impedance characteristics, potentially leading to system instability. Therefore, the analysis of the impact of CPL on DC microgrids during large disturbances is crucial. This paper employs mixed potential theory to study the large disturbance stability of DC microgrids under CPL. Deriving the stability criterion for the system under significant perturbations reveals the impact of load types and control parameters on system stability and provides a detailed analysis of how specific system parameters affect stability. Consequently, the stability criterion can ensure the system’s stability under large disturbances without the need for repeated calculations and simulations. Simulation results verify the correctness of this stability criterion.

Per-Phase Unsymmetrical Adaptive Derivative Optimized Droop for Mitigating Voltage Quality Issues of Unbalanced Islanded Microgrids

Per-Phase Unsymmetrical Adaptive Derivative Optimized Droop for Mitigating Voltage Quality Issues of Unbalanced Islanded Microgrids

Distributed Event-Triggered Economic Environmental Resource Management for Islanded Microgrids Under DoS Attacks

Distributed Event-Triggered Economic Environmental Resource Management for Islanded Microgrids Under DoS Attacks

Reliable Cost-Efficient Integration of Pumped Hydro Storage in Islanded Hybrid Microgrid for Optimum Decarbonization

The employment of renewable energy-based resources is growing rapidly, necessitating the use of energy storage technologies to effectively manage their intermittent power generation. This study proposes an optimal planning for various distributed generators in a microgrid system. The objective is to size and operate a reliable hybrid islanded microgrid with minimum total system operational cost. To determine the optimal energy management and size of each unit, the problem is formulated applying Particle Swarm Optimization methodology utilizing sets of historical data such as wind speed, solar irradiation, and load demand on an hourly basis. With the proposed methodology, the capacities of photovoltaic, wind turbine, pumped hydro storage, and fuel cell are optimized as 1300 kW, 1125 kW, 400 kW, and 1590 kW, respectively. The obtained results concluded that optimum size reduces 14.85% and 22.6% in the fuel cell consumption in summer and fall respectively. Furthermore, the amount of CO2 emission is reduced by 10.6 ton in those mentioned seasons. The results obtained indicate that the proposed system having cost of energy (COE) of 0.2961 ($/kWh), and an excess energy of 196.208 MWh. An effectiveness analysis highlights the significant impact of incorporating pumped hydro storage, increasing the reliability index by 50.9%.

Autonomous Control of Voltage and Frequency in Parallel Inverters of Microgrid

Integration of Distribution Generations (DGs) provides flexibility in power transmission. DGs reduce expenditure, expansion of transmission lines and transmission loss. DGs can work separately from the main grid with local loads and form a microgrid. In grid-connected mode, the voltage and frequency of the microgrid are regulated by the main grid. Voltage and frequency regulation in the islanding microgrid are crucial. This paper presents voltage and frequency control techniques for parallel inverters in microgrid. The proposed model works on close loop control of inverters and it can be used for plug-and-play operation of microgrid. The Microgrid model is developed in MATLAB/Simulink and the performance of the system is analyzed in grid-connected mode and isolation mode.

Design, Simulation and Performance of a CSI Converter for Grid-Connected or Islanded Microgrids with High Step-Up Capability in PV Applications

In the context of energy conversion from renewable sources to distribution grids (insulated or not), a converter is often required to transfer energy from a low voltage source towards three-phase grids. This paper presents the HW design, the simulation results, and the conversion performance of a CSI converter intended to interface low-voltage renewable sources to three-phase grids. The main focus of this paper is to obtain the best performance in terms of voltage increase towards the output stage while maximizing the conversion efficiency. In comparison with the currently used energy conversion systems for small photovoltaic systems, hereafter some solutions were adopted to level and maximize the energy flow from the source to the DC-link and improve the quality of current supplied in terms of harmonic distortion. The proposed system is composed of two conversion stages: the first, voltage-to-current, the second current-to-current via a three-phase CSI bridge modulated with the SVM technique. The stages are not completely decoupled from an electrical point of view; therefore, in order to mitigate the effects of these interactions, synchronization strategies have been adopted.

Optimal sizing of islanded microgrid using pelican optimization algorithm for Kutubdia Island of Bangladesh

This study proposes an optimal design approach, based on the Pelican Optimization Algorithm (POA), to configure the optimal sizing of design variables on an islanded microgrid: photovoltaic (PV) modules, wind turbines (WT), diesel generators (DG), and batteries in Kutubdia, Bangladesh based on optimal life cycle cost (LCC) and cost of energy (COE). Additionally, the economic analysis of three independent battery technologies, notably lead acid, lithium-ion, and nickel-iron are carried out to find the economically feasible technology, to ensure uninterrupted power supply. Moreover, reliability and sensitivity analyses of the optimized microgrid using POA were conducted for various reliability indices and variable interest rates. Results show that proposed POA method provides the optimal island microgrid configuration with lead acid (LA) batteries (PV/WT/LA/DG) based on a minimum LCC of $8334901, COE of 0.1080$/KWh and greenhouse gas emission amount of 19664 kgs/year. Furthermore, the outcomes generated by the POA are compared with genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, moth flame optimization algorithm, whale optimization algorithm and grey wolf optimization. It is found that POA method achieves more competitive results compared to other optimization techniques due to its ability to adjust parameters, fast convergence speed, and straightforward computations.

Combined Economic Emission Dispatch Including Variable Energy Resources

Sustainable energy solutions are becoming more and more necessary as the world's energy needs increase as a result of population expansion and industrialization. Using renewable energy sources has become essential to meeting these needs and reducing the negative effects on the environment. The increasing incorporation of renewable energy sources (RES) like wind and solar into microgrid systems poses a notable obstacle to attaining optimum power dispatch because of their intrinsic unpredictability. The combined economic emission dispatch (CEED) issue may become inefficient as a result of this fluctuation, especially in islanded microgrid systems. In particular, in areas with significant RES potential, resolving this problem is essential to improving the sustainability and dependability of the energy supply. In this work, the optimization of the CEED issue in an islanded microgrid system with wind, solar, and thermal energy sources is the main emphasis. By employing a weighted sum approach and a Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA), the research aims to provide an efficient solution to the multi-objective CEED dilemma. The proposed method outperforms traditional optimization techniques, offering a more robust framework for integrating RES into microgrids. This research reveals a number of limitations that affect the effectiveness of energy dispatch systems, such as thermal unit ramp rates and operating restrictions. Subsequent investigations have to concentrate on delving deeper into these limitations and devising tactics to augment the flexibility of optimization algorithms such as the Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA) approach.