Real-Time Simulation of Microgrid and Load Behavior Analysis Using FPGA

Micro-grid is sub-unit of a smart grid consisting of a complex power electronics, energy storage systems and several generating sources distributed throughout the network. Real-time based simulations of Micro-grid (MG) demands large computational resources. This research presents MG system that utilizes a field programmable gate array (FPGA, NI PXIe-7976R) module where real-time simulations, communication, and analysis is performed to determine the behavior of the MG system. Also, the data acquisition using NI CompactDAQ cards with the integration of the LabView program is used to determine MG output signals as a power quality analyzer. The three-phase output signals are then modified to emulate real-time MG scenario using Regatron (TC ACS). Further, the AC variable loads such as resistive, capacitive and inductive loads are incorporated to investigate the behavior of MG outputs. Overall, the MG system design and hardware implementation, the transmission line model and the algorithms in software environment as LabView and OPAL-RT, the results and its verification are discussed.