Management and equalization of energy storage devices for DC microgrids using a SoC-sharing function

Abstract

This paper presents a method for Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) equalization and energy management in dc microgrids (MGs) with slow dynamic sources, such as Fuel Cells (FCs). The three main features of this method are the ESSs equalization, the energy management between the ESSs and the FC, and the ability to suppress fast transients of load, preventing damages in the FC. The equalization is performed using a State of Charge (SoC)-Sharing Function, which is based on a Sigmoid Function (SF). The SoC-Sharing Function is designed similarly to the droop controller, therefore, it is suitable for operation in droop based MGs. Additionally, the ability to suppress fast transients of load is performed by adding a low pass filter in the FC control loop. The main advantages of this method are the SF smooth behavior and the lack of need for a high-speed link of communication between the sources. To evaluate the MG stability, the Lyapunov's Indirect Method is applied in the MG model considering different scenarios varying the SoC and load connected to the dc-link. Finally, the model is validated by comparing simulation and experimental results supplied by a lab-scale prototype.