Microgrid stabilization by superconducting magnetic energy storage with optimal energy capacity by genetic algorithm

In a microgrid with wind and photovoltaic power generations, the intermittent power from these sources may cause a large power fluctuation. Besides, when the severe fault occurs in the system, it may cause the transient power fluctuation. If the power fluctuation cannot be maintained in the acceptable range, the system stability may be deteriorated. To compensate for fast power fluctuation, a superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) can be applied. This paper proposes a new optimization technique of SMES power controller with optimal energy capacity. The power controller structure is the first-order lead-lag compensator. The optimization problem of power controller parameters, coil inductance and initial coil current is formulated based on an enhancement of system damping and a minimization of initial energy capacity of SMES. The genetic algorithm is applied to achieve all optimized parameters. Simulation results confirm the control effect of the SMES with optimized energy capacity against various disturbances. © 2012 Praise Worthy Prize S.r.l. - All rights reserved.