Communication Technologies for Control of Microgrids

There are multiple ways to control a microgrid, incorporating many functions, from high-level supervisory control to low-level control of individual systems and devices. When considering a microgrid structure that includes renewable energy sources and energy storage systems, at least some functions need to be performed by the microgrid system-level controller. These functions include prioritizing renewable energy sources, managing energy supply to and from batteries, regulating voltage at different locations, ensuring safe and effective transitions to and from island mode, safely generating and distributing electricity within the microgrid, and guaranteeing the power quality and stability of the microgrid. In this project funded by the Otto Mønsted Foundation under the Visiting Professorship scheme, the researchers will investigate the implementation of a communication and measurement architecture for the hierarchical control of power electronic‐based microgrids. This structure will be integrated into the existing microgrid test setup in the Power Electronic Systems Lab at DTU Engineering Technology. This microgrid pilot plant with the new communication and processing structure will allow the implementation of an effective hierarchical control structure.