In the dynamic world of renewable energy, the integration of wind turbines into the power grid presents both opportunities and challenges. As the penetration of renewable energy sources (RES) increases, so does the need for synthetic inertia to maintain grid stability. This is where the work of Valentina Baruzzi, from the Department of Electric, Electronic, Telecommunication Engineering, and Naval Architecture at the University of Genoa, comes into play.
Baruzzi’s recent study, published in the International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems (translated from the Italian, it is called the International Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems), delves into the intricacies of synthetic inertia generation in wind turbine generators. The research focuses on the impact of measurement noise and delays on the synthetic inertia provided by grid-following inverters equipped with virtual hidden inertia emulators.
The crux of the issue lies in the real-time evaluation of the rate of change of the electrical frequency (RoCoF) in the grid. Measurement noise and delays can cause the real inertia provided by the system to deviate from the intended value. This deviation can have significant implications for grid stability, particularly in systems with high RES penetration.
Baruzzi explains, “The challenge is to ensure that the synthetic inertia provided by the inverters is as close as possible to the desired value, despite the presence of measurement noise and delays.” This is where Baruzzi’s research shines, as it quantifies the effects of these disturbances and provides insights into how to mitigate them.
The study employs both simulations and experimental tests using a hardware prototype and a real-time simulator. These tests were conducted in various scenarios to understand the behavior of the system under different conditions. “By understanding how measurement noise and delays affect synthetic inertia, we can develop more robust control strategies for grid-following inverters,” Baruzzi adds.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. As the energy sector continues to shift towards renewable sources, the ability to maintain grid stability becomes paramount. Baruzzi’s findings could lead to more efficient and reliable wind turbine generators, reducing the risk of grid instability and improving the overall performance of renewable energy systems.
The implications of this research extend beyond wind turbines. As other renewable energy sources, such as solar and hydro, also rely on inverters for grid integration, the insights gained from this study could be applied more broadly. This could pave the way for more innovative and effective control strategies, enhancing the stability and reliability of power grids worldwide.
The research by Valentina Baruzzi and her team is a significant step forward in understanding and mitigating the challenges posed by measurement noise and delays in synthetic inertia generation. As the energy sector continues to evolve, such advancements will be crucial in shaping the future of renewable energy integration.
