Equivalent modelling of reciprocating engines generators for microgrid frequency response analysis

Typical microgrid configurations include small-scale generation units that belong to the class of reciprocating engines (gas, diesel, heavy fuel oil). A simplified equivalent model for representing the frequency response of a given set of this kind of generators is proposed in this paper. The model parameters are tuned to obtain frequency responses compliant with the performance classes stated by the ISO 8528-5 standard. The result is a set of equivalent and simple models that can be used to simulate the frequency response within a given microgrid configuration that includes a set of reciprocating engines generators. Finally, a suitable validation of the proposed models is carried out using two highly detailed models of real diesel and heavy fuel oil generators.