A microgrid control scheme for islanded operation and re-synchronization utilizing Model Predictive Control

Enhancing grid resilience is proposed through the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) with microgrids. Due to the diverse nature of DERs, there is a need to explore the optimal combined operation of these energy sources within the framework of microgrids. As such, this paper presents the design, implementation and validation of a Model Predictive Control (MPC)-based secondary control scheme to tackle two challenges: optimal islanded operation, and optimal re-synchronization of a microgrid. The MPC optimization algorithm dynamically adjusts input signals, termed manipulated variables, for each DER within the microgrid, including a gas turbine, an aggregate photovoltaic (PV) unit, and an electrical battery energy storage (BESS) unit. To attain optimal islanded operation, the secondary-level controller based on Model Predictive Control (MPC) was configured to uphold microgrid functionality promptly following the islanding event. Subsequently, it assumed the task of power balancing within the microgrid and ensuring the reliability of the overall system. For optimal re-synchronization, the MPC-based controller was set to adjust the manipulated variables to synchronize voltage and angle with the point of common coupling of the system. All stages within the microgrid operation were optimally achieved through one MPC-driven control system, where the controller can effectively guide the system to different goals by updating the MPC’s target reference. More importantly, the results show that the MPC-based control scheme is capable of controlling different DERs simultaneously, mitigating potentially harmful transient rotor torques from the re-synchronization as well as maintaining the microgrid within system performance requirements.