Performance test of a PQ universal compensator through Control Hardware in the Loop simulation

Distributed Energy Resources (DER) connected to distribution grids through static power converters may have major impacts on Power Quality (PQ). For this reason, power converters used as Universal Compensators (UC) are gaining more and more interest. This paper describes the design, modeling and study of a shunt static compensator for Low Voltage distribution grids. The proposed device can be used for interfacing Distributed Generators (DG) or Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to the grid and can be connected close to disturbing loads. This device can compensate harmonic currents, reactive power and unbalances of disturbing loads, and it can also supply sensitive loads in island operation. Performances of the proposed device, with different control schemes and with different harmonic compensation strategies, are assessed through Control Hardware in the Loop (CHIL) Real Time simulations.