Work

Adaptive Grid‐Forming Controller With Virtual Inertia and Damping for Enhanced Frequency Stability in Renewable Energy Systems

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The increasing integration of renewable energy systems (RESs) such as solar and wind into modern power grids using converter‐based, inertia‐less interfaces poses serious frequency stability challenges. This is due to reduced system inertia conventionally provided by synchronous generators. This paper proposes an innovative solution using an adaptive grid‐forming controller (AGFC), designed to emulate and adapt virtual inertia and damping in real time. The AGFC uniquely combines grid‐forming virtual inertia damping control with an adaptive DC link voltage regulation loop, coordinated by a genetic algorithm–optimized proportional integral (GA‐PI) controller. Key innovation lies in employing the GA‐PI control to dynamically manage DC link energy exchange during grid disturbances. Through optimized GA‐PI tuning, rapid adjustment of control parameters is achieved to maintain system stability during sudden load changes. MATLAB/Simulink simulations demonstrate that the proposed AGFC substantially mitigates frequency deviation, rate of change of frequency, and frequency settling time under transient conditions. Compared with conventional grid‐forming control without adaptive DC link management, the designed AGFC depicts superior resilience and adaptability to load disturbances. It enables inverters to autonomously establish voltage and frequency references while providing synchronous generator‐like stabilization. The results demonstrate that the proposed framework enhances the grid’s inertial response and dynamic stability for converter‐interfaced RES. Future research will explore scaling the AGFC for multiarea grids and applying advanced parameter optimization to larger systems. This is expected to further improve system‐wide frequency regulation and stability.

Source: Journal of Electrical and Computer Engineering

DOI: 10.1155/jece/4351705

Authors: Julius Ndirangu, John Nderu, George Irungu

Institution: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Microgrid Control and Optimization

Subfield: Control and Systems Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,100