On the Impact of Topology on the Primary Frequency Control of Virtual Power Plants

This paper studies the impact of topology on the primary frequency regulation of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). Two cases are considered, namely, a topology where the Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) that compose the VPP are scattered all-over the transmission grid; and a topology where the DERs are all connected to the same distribution system that is connected to the rest of the transmission grid through a single bus. The case study considers these topologies through modified versions of the WSCC 9-bus system. Detailed models of stochastic disturbances caused by loads, wind speed and solar irradiance, as well as of communication delays of a variety of realistic communication networks are discussed and evaluated.