Analysis of voltage and frequency stability of electric power system network with photovoltaic-based generation penetration

Abstract

The operation of Distributed Generation (DG) with renewable energy sources integrated with distribution networks through microgrids poses challenges in terms of operation and control. If this is left unchecked, it can have a negative impact on system security and reliability in terms of voltage and frequency stability that will be disrupted because of frequent variations in power production and loading levels. This study investigates voltage and frequency stability in microgrids because of the penetration of DG with photovoltaic (PV) renewable energy sources in the power system using the Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG) control technique. The VSG is a control alteration that enhances the capabilities of the power system so that voltage and frequency stability can be preserved and improved. The VSG control method with additional damping controllers that increase inertia with additional virtual inertia is used to simulate the speed of restoration of voltage and frequency stability of the power system due to the penetration of PV-based power plants. The simulation results show that at the time of penetration of PV-based power plants in the power system, there is a momentary instability in voltage and frequency, but it is immediately dampened by VSG control and can be quickly restored so that the stability of voltage and frequency is maintained.