As we head towards higher penetraons of convertor fed general on, mainly interconnectors and renewables, a variety of problems are anticipated in the System Operability Framework (SOF). A project was run with Strathclyde (ref. NIA_NGET0106) over the last couple of years to simulate Virtual Synchronous Machines (VSM) which are convertors behaving like synchronous machines. Compared to constraints or synchronous compensaints on, this technology potenially provides a more economical way of operting the system so reducing cost to end consumers
Objectives
The objectives of this project are to:
- Demonstrate a physical implementation of VSM and compare laboratory results to simulations in PowerFactory.
- Understand any risks or issues in the design and construction of VSM devices.
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Provide evidence either to support mandatory changes in converter fed generation performance, e.g. through Grid Code and/or Distribution Code modifications, or to support development of balancing service markets to value the abilities of VSM generation. Evidence would include:
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Required behaviour of converter fed generation to operate as VSM.
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Quantity or proportion of synchronous and/or VSM generation required at different penetrations of converter fed generation.
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Required capability of VSM generation depending on the quantity or proportion required.
