Dispatchable distributed generation using a back-to-back converter for grid-forming improvements based on feed-forward action with load current prediction.

Abstract

This work deals with the control law design and experimental verification of a grid-forming dispatchable distributed generation based on a back-to-back converter. The proposed system brings several improvements to the prime mover as well as to the microgrid voltage quality. The control strategy is based on an inner current and an outer voltage loop for both sides of the converter. The external loop of the back-to-back input side, which is connected to the generator, is responsible for regulating the DC voltage. On the other hand, in the output side, the voltage loop ensures a high-quality AC waveform to feed the loads. A comprehensive discussion regarding the current controller with harmonic mitigation is performed to justify the controller's choice. It is shown that a suitable current controller significantly improves the disturbance rejection. A feed-forward compensation based on the load current prediction without any additional sensor is proposed to improve the output voltage quality. Experimental results are used to validate the proposed control law and to show the improvements and benefits of the system.