Microgrid DER Frequency Droop Control Without Centralized Dispatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centralized control systems for microgrids are prone to single points of failure, require complex data flow, and are difficult to scale, leading to inefficiencies and vulnerabilities in power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A decentralized control system where DER controllers exchange data to determine power reference values and frequency set points, eliminating the need for a central controller and enabling each DER to operate as a grid-forming node, thus creating a resilient and scalable power distribution network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a centralized control system is used for microgrid power distribution, then control and planning can be implemented, but single points of failure and system vulnerabilities occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized control function into distributed control units (DER controllers) that operate autonomously. Each DER controller manages its own power resource and communicates with peer controllers through a mesh network, eliminating the single centralized control point and its associated vulnerability while maintaining coordinated control across the microgrid.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the control function from a centralized location and distributes it to individual DER controllers. Each DER controller contains local intelligence and decision-making capability, removing the dependency on a central controller and thereby eliminating single points of failure in the control architecture.
2Ease of operation
If a centralized control system is used for microgrid power distribution, then coordination can be achieved, but complex data flow and communication requirements arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where DER controllers exchange power correction values with each other through the mesh network. Each controller receives correction values from peers, processes them locally, and adjusts its power output accordingly. This distributed feedback loop achieves coordination without requiring complex centralized data collection and distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
Each DER controller autonomously determines its own power reference value by processing received correction values through local algorithms. The controllers self-adjust their operation based on system conditions and peer communications, eliminating the need for complex centralized data flow management while maintaining coordinated power distribution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a centralized control system is used for microgrid power distribution, then overall system control can be maintained, but scalability and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control architecture into independent, identical DER controller units that can be added or removed from the mesh network without affecting the fundamental system structure. This modular segmentation enables easy scalability and adaptation to different microgrid configurations while maintaining consistent control logic across all units.
Solution Approach 2:
Each DER controller is designed as a universal unit capable of managing different types of distributed energy resources (solar, wind, storage, generation) and participating in the same control protocol. This universality allows the microgrid to accommodate diverse resource types and configurations without requiring different control architectures, enhancing adaptability while keeping individual controller complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a microgrid using a distributed energy resource (DER) controller determines an output power value of a DER. The method also receives a remote power correction value from a second DER controller. The method further determines a local output power reference value as a function of the output power value and the remote power correction value. The method further determines a frequency set point as a function of the local output power reference value and a droop coefficient. The method further adjusts an output frequency of the DER as a function of the frequency set point.