Frequency Control and Disturbance Containment Using Grid-Forming Embedded Storage Networks

This paper presents a method for fast frequency control in bulk power systems using embedded networks of grid-forming energy storage resources. Unlike their traditional role as reserves, these storage resources are deployed as fast-acting grid assets that actively shape transient dynamics. The storage resources in the network are autonomously controlled using local measurements to provide distributed frequency support during disturbance events. Additionally, the grid-forming inverter sys-tems interfacing with the storage resources are equipped with fast-acting safety controls, designed to keep frequency transients within a specified tolerance range. The safety-control strategy improves frequency nadirs and helps contain disturbances, pre-venting them from spreading far from their source. The paper also presents sensitivity studies to evaluate the impacts of storage capacity and inverter controller parameters on the dynamic performance of frequency control and disturbance localization. The effectiveness of the proposed safety-constrained grid-forming control is also compared with the more common grid-following control. The results are illustrated through case studies on an IEEE test system.