Black Start Strategy for Modern Power Systems Using Inverter-Based Resources

The transition to renewable energy and inverter-based resources (IBRs) presents new opportunities and challenges for modern power systems, particularly in black start scenarios. This paper presents a systematic black start technique utilizing IBRs to restore power systems effectively. The method initiates by engaging grid-interactive inverters (GII) as grid-forming (GFM) inverters to create stable voltage and frequency references. Subsequently, the dead bus and associated transmission lines are energized to prepare for system restoration. The grid following (GFL) inverters are sequentially connected to the energized bus through the main connectors. Critical loads are prioritized, ensuring power supply to essential services during restoration. Once stability is achieved, the system is linked to the utility grid, allowing the GFL inverters to supply photovoltaic (PV) power to the grid. At the same time, the GII functions as a GFL inverter to charge the battery. This structured and methodical approach provides reliable, robust, and effective black start operations in modern power systems dominated by IBRs.The black start scenario is validated in a 2MW solar power plant using MATLAB/Simulink.