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Updated: Jun 17, 2025

Experimental Investigation of the Hierarchical Control in DC Microgrids Using a Real-time Simulator
Published on: February 14, 2025
Design and analysis of UPQC in a microgrid using model reference adaptive control ensemble with back-stepping
Sandip Kumar Das1, Sarat Chandra Swain1, Ritesh Dash2
1School of Electrical Engineering, KIIT Deemed to be University, India.
This study introduces a novel microgrid control system using a Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC)-Back-stepping controller for improved power quality and grid stability. The system efficiently integrates renewable energy sources with minimal infrastructure.
Area of Science:
- Electrical Engineering
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Control Systems
Background:
- The power sector is transitioning to decentralized generation, with microgrids integrating diverse energy sources.
- Increased renewable energy and distributed generators necessitate advanced strategies for power quality (PQ) and reliability.
- Existing microgrid systems require enhanced control for optimal performance and stability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and evaluate a novel control system for microgrids to improve power quality and grid management.
- To introduce a Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC) with Back-stepping and online parameter tuning for enhanced adaptability.
- To demonstrate the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of the proposed microgrid model.
Main Methods:
- A microgrid model integrating photovoltaics, wind energy, and fuel cells was developed.
- A Unified Power Quality Conditioner (UPQC) was integrated to address PQ issues.
- A Back-stepping controller with MRAC and online parameter tuning was implemented and compared against ANFIS and Fuzzy controllers.
- A Matlab model and hardware setup were used for validation.
Main Results:
- The MRAC-Back-stepping controller demonstrated superior adaptability and responsiveness in microgrid operations.
- The proposed system achieved optimal grid management, enhancing efficiency and stability.
- Comparative analysis confirmed the efficacy and versatility of the MRAC-Back-stepping controller over ANFIS and Fuzzy controllers.
- The model requires minimal additional infrastructure, proving cost-effective and sustainable.
Conclusions:
- The developed MRAC-Back-stepping controller is highly effective for microgrid power quality and stability enhancement.
- The proposed system offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for modern microgrid challenges.
- The research validates the robustness and versatility of the proposed control strategy through simulation and hardware implementation.
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