In a significant stride towards enhancing the stability and efficiency of modern power grids, researchers have developed a novel approach that integrates blockchain technology with advanced inverter control strategies. This breakthrough, published in the IEEE’s open-access journal, Access, promises to revolutionize the way nested microgrids operate, particularly in scenarios involving renewable energy sources and distributed energy resources (DERs).
At the heart of this research is the dynamical stability analysis of grid-following (GFL) and grid-forming (GFM) inverters, conducted by Rajdip Debnath from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at the Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, India. The study addresses critical challenges in modernized nested microgrids, where the integration of renewable energy sources has introduced complexities in power distribution systems.
“Mode transitions in these systems often lead to instability due to multi-loop control interactions,” explains Debnath. “Our work presents a comprehensive stability analysis supported by advanced control strategies that address dynamic response limitations, sensor dependencies, filter fluctuations, and controller complexities.”
The research employs an eigenvalue-based framework to identify dominant oscillatory modes and uses online adaptation to mitigate disturbances, preserving closed-loop performance. Time-evolution modeling of observables enables enhanced real-time monitoring, ensuring that the system remains stable and efficient.
One of the most innovative aspects of this study is the integration of a blockchain-enabled decentralized framework. This layer ensures secure, transparent, and automated stability actions, providing a robust solution for the energy sector. “The blockchain layer, implemented on the Polygon network, achieved a measured throughput of 1,572 transactions per second, with an average block time of 2.3 seconds and transaction fees below 0.01 USD,” Debnath notes. “This enables rapid, economical, and scalable peer-to-peer stability service execution.”
The practical implications of this research are substantial. Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) experiments on a modified IEEE 123-node test feeder demonstrated a total harmonic distortion (THD) of 1.75% under weak-grid conditions, significantly outperforming other approaches. The proposed controller achieved a tracking error dynamics of 0.06% and a steady-state error of 0.02%, surpassing classical methods.
The commercial impacts of this research are far-reaching. Enhanced stability and efficiency in nested microgrids can lead to more reliable and resilient power distribution systems, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. The integration of blockchain technology adds an extra layer of security and transparency, which is crucial for the energy sector as it transitions towards decentralized and renewable energy sources.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the findings of this research could shape future developments in grid management and control. By addressing the complexities introduced by renewable energy sources and DERs, this study paves the way for more stable, efficient, and secure power distribution systems. The integration of blockchain technology further enhances the potential for decentralized control, offering a scalable and economical solution for the energy sector.
In summary, this research represents a significant advancement in the field of power systems engineering, with profound implications for the energy sector. The work of Rajdip Debnath and his team not only addresses critical challenges in modernized nested microgrids but also opens up new possibilities for the future of grid management and control.