In the rapidly evolving landscape of power grid technology, a groundbreaking study by Ran Ding, a researcher at State Grid Jibei Electric Power Co., Ltd. in Beijing, is set to redefine how we understand and manage grid-forming converters (GFMs). Ding’s research, published in the journal 电力工程技术 (which translates to “Power Engineering and Technology”), delves into the intricate dynamics of GFMs, particularly their transient stability during grid faults. This work could have significant commercial implications for the energy sector, paving the way for more stable and efficient power grids.
Grid-forming converters are crucial components in modern power systems, enabling the integration of renewable energy sources and ensuring grid stability. However, when faults occur, these converters can become transiently unstable, posing a risk to the overall grid reliability. While much research has focused on voltage ride-through controls, Ding’s study takes a novel approach by examining the influence of power loop differences and interactions on transient stability.
At the heart of Ding’s research is the derivation of the expression and power-loop model of GFMs under transient conditions. This model serves as a bridge to analyze the impact of control loop differentiation, a critical aspect that has been largely overlooked until now. “The difference of active loop is the scaling of control parameters, and the difference of reactive loop is the change of control structure and parameters,” Ding explains. This distinction is pivotal for understanding how to optimize GFM performance during transient events.
One of the key findings of Ding’s study is the interaction regularity of power loop differences. The research reveals that inertia promotes the coupling of the active loop to the reactive loop, while the voltage correction coefficient alleviates the deterioration of the reactive loop on the active loop. This insight is crucial for engineers and researchers working on improving the stability and efficiency of power grids.
The implications of Ding’s research are far-reaching. By understanding the influence of power loop differences, energy companies can develop more robust control strategies for GFMs, leading to enhanced grid stability and reliability. This, in turn, can reduce the risk of blackouts and improve the integration of renewable energy sources, a pressing need in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Moreover, the study’s findings on control parameter changes and power loop coupling provide a roadmap for future developments in GFM technology. As Ding notes, “Increasing damping and decreasing inertia is beneficial to improve power angle and frequency stability, while smaller proportional, integral parameters and larger voltage correction parameters are beneficial to improve voltage stability.” These insights can guide the design of next-generation GFMs, making them more resilient and adaptable to the demands of modern power grids.
The energy sector is on the cusp of a transformative era, and Ding’s research is a significant step forward. By shedding light on the complex dynamics of GFMs, this study opens new avenues for innovation and improvement in power grid technology. As we strive for a more sustainable and reliable energy future, the insights from Ding’s work will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the power grids of tomorrow.
For those in the energy sector, staying abreast of these developments is not just an option but a necessity. The findings published in Power Engineering and Technology offer a wealth of knowledge that can drive forward the commercial impacts of GFM technology, ensuring a more stable and efficient energy landscape for all.
