Hello solar enthusiasts! In our journey to maximize the potential of solar energy, finding innovative ways to optimize storage systems is as critical as refining the technology of solar panels for your home. Thanks to research from the Edith Cowan University in Australia, we’re a step closer to doing just that.
This savvy team of researchers have proposed a game-changing methodology to determine the optimum size of large inverter-connected energy storage systems (ESSs). Like a well-tailored suit, it’s all about the perfect fit here, adjusting specific parameters for a smooth, efficient energy response. This kind of streamlined optimization is advantageous not only for individual solar arrays for home use but also for engulfing power system planning.
And don’t worry about the cost, as their proposed solution is designed to be easy on the wallet.
The study, published in the Journal of Energy Storage, primarily focuses on how ESS active power capacity can be used to minimize under-frequency load shedding (UFLS) schemes, which come into play during low-frequency events. Since these events are infrequent, a cost-effective option is to utilize the ESS for emergency under-frequency response.
The minimum power rating for batteries is crucial, whether for virtual synchronous generators (VSGs) or droop control-based grid-forming (GFM) inverters. The researchers point out that the ESS size must be finely tuned to maintain frequency within a standard operating range. Their approach to achieving this precision is as intriguing as their research.
Inspired by the simplicity of a mountain hike, they use a Hill climbing algorithm to find the best solution. The algorithm, inspired by the process of hill climbing, continues to increase until it lands upon a peak value, or in this case, an optimized ESS size.
Using a simulation, they concluded that for GFM inverters, a decrease in the active power droop coefficient leads to an increase in active power output. For VSGs, it was suggested to maintain the acceleration constant, which strikes a balance between the rate of change of frequency (RoCoF) and power oscillations.
All in all, these findings are music to the ears of solar companies, enthusiasts, and homeowners looking for the most efficient solar panels for their home. If you’re involved in planning or operating a solar array for home use, this kind of smart, cost-effective planning could be the key to harnessing the full power of your solar energy system. Keep tuned for more insights in the solar industry as our journey towards clean and efficient energy continues.
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/08/05/new-battery-sizing-approach-for-virtual-synchronous-generators-control-based-grid-forming-inverters/
