Self-Excited Induction Generator Based Microgrid with Supercapacitor Energy Storage to Support the Start-up of Dynamic Loads

Abstract

A supercapacitor storage system (SCSS) is used for improving the dynamic performances of a microgrid (MG) fed by a self-excited induction generator (SEIG), in the case of the direct start-up of an induction motor (IM) of comparable power. The primary control system contains a voltage source inverter (VSI) with a dump load (DL), to which the SCSS is added. The control strategy for the SCSS consists of injecting power into the VSI DC-link when, because of the overload created by the IM, the DC voltage decreases under the acceptable limit. Thus, the overall performance of the SEIG-supplied MG is significantly improved. Simulations and experimental results accomplished on a laboratory-scale MG validate the effectiveness of the proposed control structure.

Keywords

• microhydro power
• generators
• induction motors
• supercapacitors
• DC-DC power converters