Control strategies for DC Microgrids: An overview

The aim of reduction in the use of fossil fuel sources, rising needs and environmental concern has necessitated the search for alternative sources of energy. A DC Microgrid is an attractive and viable option to cope with the growing need of energy. An effective control strategy may lead to a stable and efficient operation of the DC Microgrid. The topmost priority of the controllers employed in the DC Microgrid is the control of voltage and current. Depending upon the operational features, the general control for the DC Microgrid is grouped into local and coordinated control. Local measurements get the job of local control done whereas the coordinated control depends wholly on the communication link between the distributed generating units. On the basis of the method of communication adopted, the coordinated control strategy is further classified into centralized, decentralized and distributed controls. This paper presents an exhaustive literature survey of these coordinated control strategies instrumental in getting the desired control tasks done.