Fractional-Order Finite-Time Model-Following Control for Uncertain Microgrids Against Time-Varying Delay Attack

The integration of power electronic interface-based renewable energy systems, along with fast dynamic loads, has significantly changed the dynamics of microgrids. This shift has reduced rotational inertia while introducing virtual inertia and fast frequency regulation strategies, enabling faster responses to fluctuations and necessitating real-time operation. Real-time operation, supported by advanced information and communication technologies, forms the backbone of this framework. However, it also exposes microgrids to cyber threats, which can disrupt operations by introducing delays in transmitted measurements and reference signals. To maintain microgrid resilient operations, an innovative control strategy is proposed for robust frequency regulation in microgrids under uncertainty against time-varying delay attacks. The proposed method exploits the advantages of fractional-order calculus and model-following control to enhance system operation resilience. Furthermore, a finite-time robust tracking control mechanism is utilized to ensure rapid responses. Performance of the proposed method is ensured through MATLAB simulations of a typical microgrid. Experimental test results obtained from the Opal-RT testbed are also presented. Results demonstrate the method's effectiveness in real-time operation within renewable microgrids, showcasing a swift response and reduced fluctuations.