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Design, Analysis and Implementation of a Four-Tier Centralized Control Architecture for Intelligent Operation of Grid-connected Microgrids

Abstract:

Intelligent Microgrids (MG) hold the key for optimal load and generation management. The proliferation of distributed energy resources (DERs) can provide a sustainable solution for future energy demand. Seamless integration of multiple MGs with the utility grid, would be highly impossible without higher level control and coordination. This paper presents a four-tier centralized control architecture for intelligent operation of grid-connected MG systems. The proposed MG Central Controller (MGCC) is built upon four layers which are classified as component, region, grid and system levels respectively. It generates set points for optimal power sharing based on load demand, renewable energy harvested, availability and capacity of each grid. MGCC aims at optimized power distribution, integrated control of grid-tied/islanded modular MGs, active synchronization, and improving power quality. A laboratory-scale 16kW hybrid MG testbed is developed for experimental validation. Results are presented to show the performance of MGCC under different conditions.