Operation of a 25 KW PEMFC power plant in microgrid and islanded mode using direct and quadrature axis control

Abstract

This paper utilizes a dynamic model of a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell to construct a 25Kw PEMFC power plant which is interfaced to the grid. The composite unit then feeds power to a local three phase RL load. Both grid connected and islanded mode of operation has been investigated which employs a direct axis and quadrature axis current control. The proposed controller is capable of holding the direct and quadrature axis current components of the load to the set point signal thereby ensuring continuity in load current supply even during islanded mode of operation. All simulations have been performed in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment with the help of SIMPOWER SYSTEMS toolbox.