Smart Energy System Control Laboratory – a fully-automated and user-oriented research infrastructure for controlling and operating smart energy systems

Abstract

In the present paper, we introduce the Smart Energy System Control Laboratory (SESCL) as a fully-automated and user-oriented research infrastructure for controlling and operating smart energy systems in the context of a microgrid-under-test setting. SESCL’s high level of automation and capacity to fully function in a grid-decoupled way allow for the study and evaluation of yet-to-be-developed tools and algorithms for energy technologies and grid control strategies on the edge of system stability, but in a safe environment. In the context of various European Smart Grid Laboratories, the new concept and specifications of SESCL are outlined in depth. The key advantages of SESCL are highlighted as (i) the provisioning of a fully-automated busbar matrix to provide a very flexible and adjustable microgrid topology; (ii) the capability of load shedding or integration of grid participants, as well as changing the microgrid topology on demand; (iii) and the possibility to control and modify setpoints and operating parameters of grid participants during runtime. Inspired by real-world events in island grids, the islanding of a microgrid is utilized as a use case to illustrate the capabilities of the SESCL research infrastructure.

Survey of Real-World Grid Incidents–Opportunities, Arising Challenges and Lessons Learned for the Future Converter Dominated Power System

“…Lessons and developments for the future power grid: With the fast rising diversity and number of devices actively contributing to the power grid, the mechanism of malfunction or unexpected behavior is likely to gain importance and underscores the necessity of robust fault ride through capabilities [51] as well as extensive testing in suitable experimental environments [117], [118]. However, concerning human error, which can never be ruled out, it can be expected that modern control room technology and improved situational awareness by additional measurements and information technology support can increase the system resilience.…”

“…This shows the necessity to research solutions to cope with this development, such as for example microgrid or cellular approaches. Furthermore, this development demonstrates the need for extensive system level testing in close-to-reality laboratory environments to foresee and understand arising interaction mechanism [118]. Moreover, it is troubling from an engineering point of view, that often no initiating event can be identified, cf.…”

A Digital Framework for Locally and Geographically Distributed Simulation of Power Grids

“…With this direct connection, the simulation laboratory is therefore complemented by the unique feature of Energy Lab 2.0 with the ability to set up topologically variable microgrid experiments using real power system components. [ 31 ] This establishes a digital simulation framework with test possibilities in the areas of automation, energy management, data processing, and P ‐HIL experiments using near real‐world networks.…”

The Kopernikus ENSURE Co-Demonstration Platform

“…The core of the SESCL is a matrix with ten busbars and 424 contactors that comprises an AC segment and a DC segment [33]. This busbar matrix is controlled by a central automation system that allows the interconnection of various components in a flexible topology.…”