Laboratory for Software and Hardware Modelling Based on RTDS (Real Time Digital Simulator)

Scientific results:

1. Development of a set of reference models. Two types of representative models have been developed for the main components of electrical networks, including: a) electromagnetic processes for detailed modeling, b) electromechanical processes for larger systems. To develop their reference models, two modern software packages were purchased and used: a) PSCAD for modeling electromagnetic transient processes (for working with group of models a) and b) DIgSILENT Power Factory for modeling electromechanical processes (for working with group of models b). The list of developed models includes: a model of solar (photovoltaic) power plants, models of a wind power plant Type 3 and Type 4, models of energy storage systems (both widespread lithium-ion and more exotic vanadium flow-through), a model of a single-phase inverter, an improved control system for three-phase inverters, models of main load types (asynchronous motors, variable frequency drives, converter devices). Dynamic models have also been developed to demonstrate modern electrical grid management techniques. The models are represented mainly by networks with inverters connected to them, which have a control loop with feedback to various dynamic network variables. The developed models were tested on a number of scenarios using the RTDS hardware and software system. The models are suitable for a wide range of applications, including educational use.
2. Development of improved monitoring and identification methods for electrical networks. In addition to the development of classical approaches to assessing the state of electrical networks, new approaches to monitoring system parameters and dynamic variables, knowledge of which is important to ensure stable operation and safety, have been proposed. These include methods for online determination of generator models with the ability to assess their wear processes, methods for monitoring voltage stability margins, and methods for classifying anomalies. Based on the developed methods, decision support tools are built for use in operational dispatch control centers, both at the level of trunk and distribution networks. The monitoring and identification methods proposed as a result of the project combine approaches based both on models and only on measurement data.
3. Development of reliable centralized and decentralized control systems aimed at mitigating the consequences of a high share of non-synchronous generation. Online load/demand control methods and related control methods, ranging from standard relay control to more complex dynamic control laws, are gradually becoming part of the generally accepted practice of network operation. As a result of the project, several approaches to load control have been proposed, some of which involve building basic feedback loops, while others consider more complex methods. A method has been proposed to increase the stability of electrical networks by switching bus sections and power lines. Transmission line switching, which involves adjusting line conditions, has been demonstrated to be an effective method for reducing losses, improving safety, and controlling fault currents. The proposed method significantly exceeds common heuristics in calculation speed and accuracy and can be implemented in both centralized and decentralized settings. A new measurement-based frequency and voltage regulation method applicable to micropower systems has been developed. The method is based on the exchange of information between individual inverters via power lines. To stabilize the voltage profile and implement the necessary power distribution between individual inverters, information about the settings is exchanged, based on which each of the inverters changes the virtual impedance. A method has been developed aimed at maximizing virtual inertia and damping in power grids with a high share of converter generation. An adaptive load restoration strategy is proposed for various power system operating conditions and outage scenarios. This strategy makes full use of flexible air conditioner control along with reliable power supplies from distributed generators or microgrids.
4. Research into understanding the nature of cascading accidents and outages in systems with DC inserts. Creation of new principles for protecting system integrity (System Integrity Protection Schemes - SIPS) to prevent the development of cascading accidents and outages. To ensure stable operation of networks, an assessment was made of the impact of non-synchronous generation (generation sources connected through power electronics devices) on the dynamics of the power system. In particular, by modeling the dynamics of electromagnetic transients, the effect of asynchronous generation on the magnitude of short-circuit currents was studied and it was concluded that for certain cases the existing functions of power system protection systems should be revised. Protective strategies such as deliberate system partitioning, blocking power fluctuations, and adaptive rolling shutdown of consumers as frequency and voltage drop have been proposed and validated. The developed methods are based on smart sensors, a vector measurement system and fast communication channels.

Implementation of research results:

The results of intellectual property are used by the company “Monisensa Development” LLC

Organizational and infrastructural changes:

A laboratory for software and hardware modeling has been created on the basis of RTDS. It is equipped with PONOVO power converters (amplifiers).

Education and personnel occupational retraining:

In 2021 at our Laboratory: 9 postgraduate students; 6 undergraduate students; 3 enrolled into the postgraduate school.

In 2022 at our Laboratory: 8 postgraduate students; 10 undergraduate students; 1 enrolled into the postgraduate school.

Candidate of Sciences and Doctor of Sciences dissertation are planned for defense.

We are holding weekly international seminars:

• In 2021, we conducted a series of international seminars «Friday Seminar Series» from 12 November 2022 to 24 December 2022;
• In 2022, we conducted 18 international seminars:
• 10 international seminars of the «Friday Seminar Series»;
• 2 seminars «AMPaC Assembly Meeting»;
• 4 international seminars: «Distribution power systems in the energy transition»;
• One international seminar: «Power system restoration after a nationwide blackout requires planning, testing and training in practice»;
• One international seminar: «Renewable Energy Integration International Forum 2022».

Cooperation:

1. Shandong University (China PR).
2. National University of Singapore (Singapore).
3. Delft University of Technology (the Netherlands).
4. Indian Institute of Technology, Kannur (India).
5. University of Warwick (United Kingdom).