Converter-Based Power Grids and System Stability

In the topic "Converter-Based Power Grids and System Stability" we research, develop and test the secure operation of our future power grids based on 100% renewable energy.

Power grids are currently changing fundamentally from an electromechanical to a converter-based system. In this context, we are developing methods for the control and stability analysis of decentralized converter-based grids. We are investigating interactions between different power converters, but also between power converters and other grid components. With our concepts for Grid-forming Inverters, we offer solutions that form an important support for the power grid every millisecond.

The verification of these new system services and behaviors is central to reliable grid operation. To this end, we are developing methods, for example to prove the grid-forming behavior of power converters or new grid control methods, which we test with our extensive and high-tech laboratory infrastructure in our Multi-Megawatt Lab.

A key instrument for the transformation of the power grid during the transition phase is the development of grid connection guidelines that define the characteristics of all generators connected to the grid. In order to use the findings in practice, we are actively involved in committees in which grid connection and testing guidelines are developed. We support our partners in implementing the continuously evolving requirements in accordance with the guidelines.

Fields of Work

In the research topic "Converter-Based Power Grids and System Stability" we focus on the following fields of work:

  • Dynamic Modeling of Converters, Systems and Grid Segments
  • Grid Stability Services Provided by Power Converters
  • Development and Evaluation of Control Methods for Stable Power Grids
  • Development and Support of Grid Connection Regulations and Testing Guidelines
  • Trouble Shooting in PV Power Plants
  • Characterization of Low and Medium Voltage Converters

R&D Services

We develop new methods for the control of decentralized converter-based grids and for the stability analysis of these grids. We analyze the interactions between inverters or between inverters and other grid components. Evaluating the conformity of inverters with new system services is crucial for reliable grid control. We develop new test methods for grid-forming inverters as well as new grid control methods and test them with our high-tech laboratory infrastructure in our Multi-Megawatt Lab.
Our broad range of services includes:

  • Dynamic grid simulation and system modeling in accordance with grid connection guidelines
  • Development of methods for dynamic grid stability analysis in converter-based grids
  • Development of grid-forming control algorithms for stable power grids
  • Analysis and optimization of protection systems for converter-based grids
  • Testing of grid control strategies and grid-forming inverters in our Multi-Megawatt laboratory
  • Accredited measurement and characterization of power electronic devices
  • Fault analyses, troubleshooting and tests in the laboratory and in the field
  • Advice and expert reports on power electronics issues

Against the background of the shutdown of conventional power plants, our focus is on the question of how reliable voltage and frequency regulation can be guaranteed in future converter-based grids. With our concepts, we offer simulated and tested solutions for the secure operation of future power grids based on 100% renewable energies and are constantly developing our approaches and methods further.

R&D Infrastructure

At Fraunhofer ISE, we benefit from this infrastructure for our research and development activities:

Center for Power Electronics and Sustainable Grids

The Power Converters Lab, Digital Grid Lab, Multi-Megawatt Lab and Medium Voltage Lab provide unique opportunities for research and development in the field of power electronics and dynamic grid control.

 
 

Accredited Lab

TestLab Power Electronics

Testing and characterization of power converters up to the multi-megawatt range for photovoltaic and battery applications, combined heat and power plants and DC fast-charging stations for electromobility.

Typical measurement campaigns relate to grid connection guidelines, efficiency levels, temperature-dependent derating and customer-specific tests and benchmarks.

Selected Research Projects

 

GFM-Benchmark

Cross Vendor Measurements of Grid Forming Converters to Analyze the State of the Art

 

VerbundnetzStabil

Stable Power System Behavior with Converter-based Generation

 

Q-REAL

Reactive Power Management in Real Application

 

ImaStabil

Impedance Analysis of PV Power Plants to Ensure Stable and Reliable Operation on the Grid

Contact

Roland Singer

Contact Press / Media

Roland Singer

Converter-Based Power Grids and System Stability

Fraunhofer ISE
Heidenhofstr. 2
79110 Freiburg

Phone +49 761 4588-5948

Robin Grab

Contact Press / Media

Robin Grab

Grid Performance of Decentral Generators

Fraunhofer ISE
Heidenhofstr. 2
79110 Freiburg

Phone +49 761 4588-2084

Steffen Eyhorn

Contact Press / Media

Steffen Eyhorn

Testlab Power Electronics

Fraunhofer ISE
Heidenhofstr. 2
79110 Freiburg

Phone +49 761 4588-5957

Current Publications on the Topic "Converter-Based Power Grids and System Stability"