Small Signal Stability Analysis of GFM and GFL Inverters Hybrid System with Three Typical Grid Topology Structures

Abstract

With the large-scale integration of renewable energy sources, power electronic components within power grids have surged. Traditional synchronous generator-based power generation is gradually transitioning to renewable energy generation integrated with grid-following (GFL) and grid-forming (GFM) inverters. Furthermore, power grid topology structures are evolving from traditional radial and ring-type configurations toward meshed-type architectures. The impact of grid topology structures on the stability of hybrid systems combining GFL and GFM inverters urgently requires systematic investigation. This paper establishes state-space models of GFM and GFL inverters under three typical grid topology structures and then compares the small signal stability of hybrid systems. First, mathematical models of inverters and transmission lines are established, and a full-order state-space model of the system is accordingly derived. Second, key stability indicators, including eigenvalues, damping ratio, participation factors, and sensitivity indices, are obtained by analyzing the system state matrix. Finally, simulation models for these grid topology structures are implemented in MATLAB/Simulink R2022b to validate the influences of grid topology structures on the stability related to inverters. The results demonstrate that GFL inverters are highly sensitive to grid topology structures, whereas GFM inverters are more influenced by their synchronization control capabilities. Smaller GFL inverters connection impedances and larger GFM inverters connection impedances can enhance system stability.