Abstract

In this talk, the idea of operating inverters to mimic synchronous generators is developed. We call the inverters that are operated in this way synchronverters. The deployment of this technology would minimise the impact of the fast-growing number of grid-connected inverters on the grid, which is a potential threat to the overall stability of power systems. Synchronverters behave in the same way as conventional synchronous generators and thus are grid-friendly. The implementation and operation of synchronverters will be described in detail. The real and reactive power delivered by synchronverters connected in parallel can be automatically shared using the well-known frequency and voltage drooping mechanism. Synchronverters can also be easily operated in island mode and hence they provide an ideal solution for micro-grids or smart grids. Both simulation and experimental results will be demonstrated. Synchronverters have wide applications in distributed generation and renewable energy, uninterrupted power supplies (UPS), rotary frequency converters, induction heating, static synchronous compensator (STATCOM), HVDC transmission etc.