Adaptive fuzzy control for power-frequency characteristic regulation in high-RES power systems

Future power systems control will require large-scale activation of reserves at distribution level. Despite their high potential, distributed energy resources (DER) used for frequency control pose challenges due to unpredictability, grid bottlenecks, etc. To deal with these issues, this study presents a novel strategy of power frequency characteristic dynamic adjustment based on the imbalance state. This way, the concerned operators become aware of the imbalance location but also a more accurate redistribution of responsibilities in terms of reserves activations is achieved. The proposed control is based on the concept of “cells” which are power systems with operating capabilities and responsibilities similar to control areas (CAs), but fostering the use of resources at all voltage levels, particularly distribution grids. Control autonomy of cells allows increased RES hosting. In this study, the power frequency characteristic of a cell is adjusted in real time by means of a fuzzy controller, which curtails part of the reserves, in order to avoid unnecessary deployment throughout a synchronous area, leading to a more localised activation and reducing losses, congestions and reserves exhaustion. Simulation tests in a four-cell reference power system prove that the controller significantly reduces the use of reserves without compromising the overall stability

Implementation of fuzzy logic for mitigating conflicts of frequency containment

Ever increasing shares of intermittent RES in present and future power systems pose new challenges with regard to operation, particularly balance, frequency and voltage stability. Towards effective solutions, the ELECTRA IRP project has developed a novel structure for future power systems operation, by dividing them in a number of Cells, constituting so a Web-of-Cells, and equipped with controllers addressing operation objectives. This paper deals with the Frequency Containment Control use case and, in particular, its implementation in the context of operation constraints imposed by different system conditions. To this end, a design method based on fuzzy logic for avoiding conflicts caused from these conditions or multiple control loops implemented on the same resource is proposed. Simulation results for various selected scenarios and controllers show the effectiveness of the proposed approach

Enhanced load frequency control : incorporating locational information for temporal enhancement

With the increasing penetration of renewables in power systems, frequency regulation is proving to be a major challenge for system operators using slower conventional generation, and alternative means to provide faster regulation are being actively sought. The participation of demand side management in ancillary service provision is proven in some energy markets, yet its full potential to benefit frequency regulation, including the exploitation of fast power ramping capability of some devices, is still undergoing research. In this study, a novel approach to improve the speed of response of load frequency control, a secondary frequency control approach is proposed. The proposed control is enabled by an effective location identification technique, is highly resilient to anticipated system changes such as reduction of inertia, and enables fully decentralised power system architectures. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated and compared to that of present day regulation control, by means of real-time simulations incorporating appropriate time delays conducted on a five-area reduced model of the Great Britain power system. The applicability of the method is further proven under realistic communications delays and measurements experimentally using a controller and power hardware-in-the-loop setup, demonstrating its critical support for enabling the stable operation of future power systems

Educational programme management methodology for research projects

Smart grids and intelligent energy systems play a pivotal role in fostering the sustainable advancement of our civilization. Over the past few decades, power systems, like many other sectors, have undergone a rapid digital transformation. This rapid development necessitates a proactive response from universities, research institutes, industry stakeholders in relation to educational programmes. Educators must rapidly adapt their curricula and teaching methodologies to effectively train the next generation of engineering professionals. While curriculum crafting for new educational programs is inherently challenging, another layer of complexity arises when research collaborations in large consortia are tasked with delivering high-quality education within a given project scope and time frame. This paper outlines a methodology for establishing an educational strategy for such research projects. This approach takes into account the available resources and expertise of the project participants, while embracing modern, learner-centric educational methodologies. It also ensures alignment with broader objectives or frameworks. Furthermore, the strategy incorporates a dynamic evaluation process that runs concurrently with the educational activities. Finally, the ERIGrid 2.0 H2020 project upon which the proposed methodology was developed, is presented as a case study