Real time simulator for microgrids

Microgrids today include more and more renewable sources both for environmental and economic reasons. The advantage of microgrids is their capacity of running isolated. The presence of largely uncontrollable sources (PV plants and wind farms) makes the grid control a complex task. During the design stage it is mandatory to consider the expected variations of both loads and sources to identify proper solution for stabilizing the Microgrid when it runs isolated. The paper presents a simulator that was developed to support the design of the Microgrid both in terms of power devices and control techniques. The main goal of this simulator is to test the automation system of the Microgrid before its site installation. The simulator calculates the dynamic behavior of conventional generators, renewable source, and loads. The model of renewable sources includes the expected power variations as well as the random profile of loads. If required, energy storage systems can be integrated in the simulator. All the control set-point of controllable equipment and the calculated frequency and voltage of the Microgrid are interfaced with the control system using a standard Ethernet-base fieldbus. Such a solution makes it possible to study different control logics and to tune the control parameters of the system using the real control system. The data exchange between the simulator and the control system is identical to the real data flow that will be found in the Microgrid. With the use of the simulator, the control system of the Microgrid is implemented during the design stage, with reduced development, testing, and commissioning times.