Comparative Analysis of Interconnecting Converters for Clustered DC Microgrids

As power systems evolve towards a more decentralized and interconnected structure, their topological structure is changing. Developing an electric grid which is sustainable and secure requires harvesting as much renewable energy as possible. To maintain sensitive loads such as electronic systems and commercial equipments, utilities are rapidly moving towards more flexible methods of power generation. As sources powered by DC, ESS (energy storage systems) and devices acting as load incorporated in electric power systems grow in popularity, microgrids based on direct current are becoming increasingly popular. A DC Microgrid typically consists of multiple interconnected sources, loads, and energy storage systems, and converters are essential components based on power electronic devices that facilitate the efficient operation of the microgrid. DC Microgrids also do not need to worry about the existence of harmonics, synchronization issues and the regulation of frequency or control of reactive power, however the conventional systems powered by AC have to. Even so, clustered DC Microgrids are being considered as a cost-effective solution to cope up with widespread distributed generation, ESS and loads that can be controlled. With clustering, the reliability on the whole will be increased, utilization of the resources will be optimized, and backup system investments will be reduced. Although DC Microgrids can be linked through the passive components (like tielines or power transformers), they pose some challenges as far as the question of controllability and modularity is concerned. The clustering of DC Microgrids has also been made possible by the use of Interconnecting Converters (ICs). Due to this, ICs function as energy routers in DC Microgrid Clusters, connecting and managing interconnections between interconnected DC Microgrids.