An overview on microgrid control strategies

Abstract

In response to the ever increasing energy demand, integrating distributed energy resource-based microgrid will be the most promising power system improvement in the near future. Microgrid system implementation provides significant advantages for both electric utility provider and end customer user. This paper performs a comprehensive literature review on the current key issues on control strategies of microgrid islanded mode operation. Brief descriptions are provided for typical microgrid control methods, PQ control, droop control, voltage/frequency control, and current control, which are associated with microgrid mode of operation. This review also covers microgrid control issues such as islanded mode, stability, and unbalanced voltages to provide adequate power quality. In addition, this paper discusses the challenges of microgrid islanded mode issues, such as load sharing, distributed generation losses, and non-linear/unbalanced load. Finally, research conclusions of the important microgrid control requirements for future development are also described.