PNNL

Abstract

A solution for enhanced self-sufficiency and resiliency at the grid's edge is the deployment of microgrids which provide a significant shift towards decentralized and renewable-focused energy production through the use of local renewable resources. However, to harness the full potential of microgrids, seamless integration with bulk grids and neighboring microgrids is essential for realizing economic and technical advantages. In this paper, we explore the capabilities of back-to-back (BTB) converters as a pivotal technology for interfacing microgrids, hybrid AC/DC grids, and bulk grids, leveraging our comprehensive phasor-domain model developed in GridLAB-D. The phasor-domain model is computationally efficient for simulating BTB with bulk grids and networked microgrids. We showcase the versatility of BTB converters (integrated Microgrid Building Block) by configuring a two-microgrid test network from a modified IEEE 13-node distribution system operating as a microgrid. These microgrids are equipped with diesel generators, photovoltaics (PV), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) resources. The simulation studies are focused on use cases demonstrating dynamic decoupling and controlled support that can be provided by a microgrid through a BTB converter.