The high dependency on fossil fuels, the constant increment in the global energy consumption and the environmental problems they cause are some of the most important challenges our society is facing. Distributed generation systems based on renewable energies, combined with energy storage systems are an interesting alternative towards tackling these challenges, but they require the adaptation of the electric grid by combining alternating current (ac) and direct current (dc) grids, forming hybrid ac/dc grids.
The main objective of the coordinated project COSNET is the development of stability analysis tools and control techniques that ensure the stability and inertial response of hybrid ac/dc grids.
The research project combines an extended background in the fields of engineering and applied mathematics. As required in this call, this experience guarantees a high socioeconomic impact of the research conducted, as well as the expertise on the most recent and competitive mathematical analysis, control and numeric simulation tools. The coordination of two complementary subprojects and teams generates an integrated and internationally competitive multidisciplinary team, capable of carrying out high-impact scientific and applied contributions.
In this complex scientific-technological context, the classical paradigm in which the mathematical model is completely known does not suffice. Therefore, robust and verified approximation methods are required for the progressive simulation and control of the dynamics. However, as it is known in other fields (aeronautics, structures, etc.), the methods that are reliable and stable for the progressive simulation might diverge in the field of control and parameter identification. To face these difficulties we will develop a complete research program, adapting the most recent methodological advances to the hybrid ac/dc grids driving this project.
We will develop simplified analytical models for the stability analysis of these systems, with the aim of creating a software platform that enables, in a simple manner, the analysis and identification of critical parameters for the stability of hybrid ac/dc grids. This process will result in a useful tool for researchers working in the academic and industrial field.
In addition, we will develop mathematical tools for differential equations for the global control of hybrid grids combining the topological analysis, model reduction, sensor location and the global control of devices.
We will also design different local control methods for the power electronic converters connected to hybrid ac/dc grids that are capable of operating autonomously, ensuring the stability of the grid and contributing in their inertial response under power disturbances. These techniques, as well as the analytical tools and global control strategies will be verified not only by simulation but also experimentally in the grid available at the laboratories of the University of Mondragon.
This innovative research program will bring a strong training capacity, and will be closely developed with leading industrial companies of the field that have explicitly expressed special interest in the project.
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