Implementation of an automated test bench for monitoring and controlling systems of decentralized energy systems through Controller Hardware-In-the-Loop and Power Hardware-In-the-Loop methodology

Abstract

With the ongoing digitalization in the energy transition and the rollout of intelligent measuring systems (iMSys) in Germany, new opportunities arise in communicating with distributed energy systems. For monitoring and telecontrolling the increasing number of distributed energy resources (DER) as well as flexible loads, the use of controlling systems in the distribution grid is gaining more importance. Therefore, different applications have been developed and basic functionalities tested in a laboratory and field environment. As a part of this progress the presented contribution focuses on the implementation of a test bench for monitoring and controlling systems named Controllable Local System (CLS) gateways. Based on the Controller Hardware-In-the-Loop (CHIL) respectively Power Hardware-In-the-Loop (PHIL) method, the test bench validates the bidirectional communication functionalities of a CLS Gateway, which is coupled with a photovoltaic inverter. The implemented test bench features a test automation which enables the conduction of multiple test scenarios concerning functionality, stability as well as resilience of a test object. Mainly this aims at investigating the suitability of such CLS gateways for field operation. Aside of the implemented test bench first test results are presented in this work. The investigated test CLS gateway has revealed a reliable transmission of measurement and control data during long-term examination. Also, frequent power interruptions can lead to failure of functionalities.