Toward Zero-Net bidirectional power transfer in Low-Voltage smart microgrids

Abstract

This paper presents a new approach for controlling the bidirectional active power flow using a series voltage source inverter placed in between the microgrid and the main grid in LV distribution network. Implementing the control operation of the series VSI resembles the form of a simulation-based optimization where a novel overall power flow algorithm is implemented to investigate the system behavior. This algorithm considers controlling the active power of the series VSI and the active power between the main grid and the microgrid to zero net energy. The algorithm has three nested levels working together to satisfy an active power reference at PCC. The results revealed in this paper are (1) investigating different settings for the DG droop characteristics to determine the limits of the proposed approach and (2) regulating the magnitude and phase angle of the series VSI according to a desired active power reference at PCC. The obtained results confirm the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed approach and the capability of the overall power flow algorithm in satisfying the zero-net power transfer target.

Keywords

• Simulation based optimization
• Power flow algorithm
• Smart Microgrid
• P-U droop
• Distributed Generator