Frameworks of the converter stations implemented in the MVAC/MVDC hybrid distribution networks

The medium-voltage AC (MVAC)/MVDC hybrid distribution network attracts many interests for its advantages of high reliability, high power quality, and high compatibility of distributed generations and DC loads integration. Power-electronic-based converter stations are the key enablers to interconnect AC and DC distribution grids. At present, the industry has developed several standard bus configurations of substations that vary in complexity, cost, and reliability. However, the frameworks of the converter stations including not only bus configurations but also converter configurations, are also closely related to the initial cost and service reliability. Thus, referring to bus configurations of traditional AC substations, an overview of MVAC/MVDC converter stations’ frameworks and their corresponding features is presented in this paper. Finally, the application scenarios of each framework are analyzed.