Stability and operation of power systems with a high share of renewable energy sources and storage systems at the transmission and distribution level

This thesis investigates two interrelated aspects of power systems with a high share of renewable energy sources and storage systems at both the transmission and distribution levels. The study comprises: i) enhancing frequency stability in transmission networks and ii) optimizing energy utilization within Renewable Energy Communities (RECs). The first part of the dissertation focuses on developing a novel control architecture enabling wind power plants and grid-scale battery energy storage systems to provide synthetic inertial response, thereby addressing frequency stability concerns. By emulating the inertial response of traditional synchronous generators, wind turbines utilize kinetic and electrostatic energy to stabilize grid frequency. Simulation studies conducted on benchmark networks and real-world transmission grids demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme in improving both small-signal and transient stability. In the second part, the thesis delves into the operational management of RECs, proposing and validating an Energy Management System (EMS) to optimize energy distribution within these communities. The EMS operates in real-time, leveraging forecasted energy production, consumption data, and market prices to minimize procurement costs while maximizing renewable energy utilization. Extensive testing using Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) and Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) configurations validates the system's reliability and effectiveness in real-world REC scenarios. Challenges such as establishing a robust online metering network and dependency on accurate forecast data are discussed, providing insights for future development. The research contributes valuable insights into the evolving landscape of power systems with significant RES integration. The proposed control architecture and validated EMS offer practical solutions for addressing current and future challenges in renewable energy management. Furthermore, the adaptability of the EMS to evolving regulatory frameworks underscores its potential for broader implementation across different regions. This research sets the stage for further advancements in enhancing the resilience and reliability of renewable energy systems in power networks.