Converter-Based Microgrid Platform Development for Inverter Based Resource Control Parameters Testing

Microgrids usually consist of inverter-based resources (IBRs), so it is essential to test their control parameters to ensure their dynamic response. At CURENT, a converter-based hardware testbed (HTB) was developed to emulate power systems in real-time to overcome the limitations of computer simulations such as computation convergence, initial conditions, and processor capability. However, to test a microgrid in the existing HTB platform required modification of the topology and line impedances compared to that used to represent transmission lines. Therefore, a converter-based microgrid platform has been developed on the existing HTB to enable changing inverter control parameters in real-time. This microgrid platform development has the capability to test a PI controller of IBRs in real-time. The design of the converter-based microgrid platform is introduced, and the experimental results are provided.