Virtual Inertia Synthesis Strategy for Thermostatically Controlled Load Clusters Integrating a Time-Triggered Mechanism

In response to the emerging trend of low inertia in the new power system, there is growing interest in utilizing the large-scale and decentralized nature of thermostatically-controlled loads (TCLs) to provide virtual inertia and damping support to the power grid. To implement this strategy, a centralized TCLs regulation framework based on open public communication is proposed. This framework encompasses three essential elements: the centralized control center, the load aggregators, and the TCLs terminals. The regulation process involves crucial steps such as sampling, calculation, control, and execution. A virtual inertia synthesis strategy is developed for the TCLs to actively participate in the power system's frequency response. The design of the TCLs terminal power support mechanism is founded on a clock tag system, enabling continuous power regulation of the TCLs. This strategy ensures the effective utilization of TCLs in providing the required inertia and damping support to the power grid and stabilizing the frequency of the power grid. Simulation examples are employed to validate the feasibility of the proposed virtual inertia synthesis strategy for TCLs. In conclusion, this proposed strategy presents a promising avenue for leveraging TCLs in mitigating the issue of low inertia in the power system.