Grid-Forming Inverters: Evaluating Performance and Industry Implications for Grid Stability and Renewable Energy Integration

this paper offers an industry-focused analysis and testing strategy for grid-forming inverters (GFM). It encompasses various essential aspects that need evaluation to verify the capabilities of Inverter-Based Resources (IBR) in supporting and servicing the grid. These evaluations cover criteria such as inertial response, short circuit contributions, active and reactive power responses to voltage and frequency variations at the grid, low and high voltage ride-through requirements, blackstart capabilities, response to active phase jumps on the grid side, and the ability to inject negative sequence current during unbalanced short circuit conditions. The paper aims to provide a comprehensive approach to evaluating IBR performance, serving as a reference for preliminary testing in power system studies and delves into the application of international and newly developed standards. It also emphasizes the growing significance of GFM in enhancing electricity system restoration processes. Lastly, a detailed real-world case study is presented using the EMT-PSCAD Simulation environment to illustrate industry metrics and evaluation criteria.