New Power Decoupling Method for Grid Forming Inverter Based on Adaptive Virtual-Synchronous Machine in Weak Grids

TL;DR

This paper introduces an adaptive power decoupling method for grid-forming inverters in weak grids, using fuzzy logic to improve stability and control by eliminating active-reactive power coupling.

Contribution

It proposes a novel adaptive virtual synchronous machine-based power decoupling technique utilizing fuzzy logic for parameter adjustment in weak grids.

Findings

Effective elimination of static and dynamic power coupling.

Improved inverter performance under various conditions.

Validated through hardware-in-the-loop and real-world testing.

Abstract

Many countries' policies have shifted rapidly towards using renewable energy for climate reasons. As a result, inverter-based resources are beginning to dominate power systems. Key elements for managing the loss of conventional generators are virtual-synchronous-generator-based grid-forming inverters. Despite the unique advantages of this technology, there are still various challenges, most notably the problem of active-reactive power coupling due to a nonzero power angle and high grid impedance ratio R/X. The effect of power coupling means that any change in the inverter's active power will affect the reactive power and vice versa. This challenge results in grid instability, reduces control performance, and restricts the active power delivery capability of the inverter to the grid. This paper presents a new vision to solve this impact in weak grids by a new power-decoupling method based on adaptive virtual synchronous generator parameters. The power coupling will be studied considering the parameters causing this effect. Fuzzy logic will serve to adjust the parameters of power control loops. Hardware-in-the-loop testing on a real-time simulator (OP4610) and a physical microcontroller verified and validated the proposed method. The results showed the proposed method's effectiveness in eliminating static and dynamic power coupling and improving the grid-forming inverter performance under different operating conditions.