Thesis
Testing of a Virtual Power Plant under Different Environmental Conditions: Exploring the benefits of a control strategy in fuel savings
Honours, Murdoch University
2023
Abstract
The current technology allows the electricity grids to be controlled using Virtual Power Plants (VPP). VPP is beneficial, especially in remote networks, as it can be an effective tool for utilities to control aggregated customer Distributed Energy Resources (DER). It enables access behind the meter of the customer’s DER while allowing them to benefit by providing battery optimisation. Carnarvon is one of the networks that will benefit from implementing VPP.
This study mainly aims to simulate a VPP in a microgrid using DigSILENT PowerFactory software. The current VPP controller was tested under different environmental conditions using the two control strategies and the DLR forecasting system at Murdoch University. The fuel consumption when using the two control strategies is also explored. The study also tests curtailment using one of the control strategies. The control testing uses the data collected from the DER trials in Carnarvon.
Irradiance data from the DLR forecasting system are used to run two control strategies implemented in PowerFactory to provide a simulation result that is used to calculate the generator loadings, run times, curtailment, and fuel consumption of the generators using Microsoft Excel.
The developed spinning reserve strategy, which aims to improve an existing control strategy, was able to reduce the spinning reserve of the generators, increase their loadings, and reduce their run times. Implementing the developed spinning reserve strategy was proven effective in providing fuel-saving benefits. The study partially achieved the testing of curtailment under an intermittently cloudy condition by increasing the rating of the PV systems.
Details
- Title
- Testing of a Virtual Power Plant under Different Environmental Conditions: Exploring the benefits of a control strategy in fuel savings
- Authors/Creators
- Jean A Samia
- Contributors
- Martina Calais (Supervisor) - Murdoch University, Centre for Water, Energy and WasteRemember Samu (Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Murdoch University; Honours
- Identifiers
- 991005607770307891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- School of Engineering and Energy
- Resource Type
- Thesis
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:
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