Real-time simulation technique of a microgrid model for DER penetration

Abstract

Comprehensive analysis of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) integration requires tools that provide computational power and flexibility. In this context, throughout this paper PHIL simulations are performed to emulate the energy management system of a real microgrid including a diesel synchronous machine and inverter-based sources. Moreover, conventional frequency and voltage droops were incorporated into the respective inverters. The results were verified at the real microgrid installation in the Centre for Renewable Energy Sources (CRES) premises. This research work is divided into two steps: A) Real time in RSCAD/RTDS and Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) simulations where the diesel generator's active power droop control is evaluated, the battery inverter's droop curves are simulated and the load sharing for parallel operation of the system's generation units is examined. B) microgrid experiments during which various tests were executed concerning the diesel generator and the battery inverters in order to examine their dynamic operation within the LV islanded power system.