AC and DC Hybrid Distribution Grids with Solar Integration: Architecture, Stabilization and Cost Assessment

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This project will analyze the potential of hybrid alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) distribution grids. This is a change from the AC-only grids currently used that require PV to be converted to DC, although DC could also benefit electric vehicle charging, batteries, LED lighting, and other technologies. The concept of DC nanogrids, microgrids, and medium-voltage distribution grids has drawn increasing attention in both academia and industry. In an effort to maximize the benefits of DC grids in terms of system cost, efficiency, and operation performance amid the challenge of reliable control under high penetration of intermittent solar energy, the team will develop controls for a hybrid AC/DC grid. They will use a universal impedance-based stabilization approach, with a decentralized and adaptive impedance loop to provide DC section and AC section stabilization, and add interface inverters that interlink AC and DC subgrids.