Real-Time Simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop Approaches for Integrating Renewable Energy Sources into Smart Grids: Challenges & Actions

Abstract

The integration of distributed renewable energy sources and the multi-domain behaviours inside the cyberphysical energy system (smart grids) draws up major challenges.Their validation and roll out requires careful assessment, in term of modelling, simulation and testing. The traditional approach focusing on a particular object, actual hardware or a detailed model, while drastically simplifying the remainder of the system under test, is no longer sufficient. Real-time simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) techniques emerge as indispensable tools for validating the behaviour of renewable sources as well as their impact/interaction to with the cyber-physical energy system. This paper aims to provide an overview of the present status-quo of real-time and HIL approaches used for smart grids and their readiness for cyber-physical experiments. We investigate the current limitations of HIL techniques and point out necessary future developments. Subsequently, the paper highlights challenges that need specific attention as well as ongoing actions and further research directions.

Real-Time Simulation in Real-Time Systems: Current Status, Research Challenges and A Way Forward

“…The adoption of real-time simulation allows testing real-time sytems under faulty and extreme conditions without damaging equipments under test while maintaining sufficient flexibility in choosing test parameters and components. Other benefits of using real-time simulations also include maintaining a relatively safe testing environment for the engineers and other personnel Zheng et al (2017a); Nguyen et al (2017).…”