100% Converter-Interfaced generation using virtual synchronous generator control: A case study based on the irish system

The increase in the use of Converter-Interfaced Generation (CIG) in the power system will require these generators to not only feed the power but also establish the voltage and maintain the grid stability. Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG) control of the CIG is proposed to fulfill this requirement since it mimics the dynamics of synchronous generation. This paper takes the all-Island Irish transmission system as an example to investigate the frequency stability of the system as it migrates towards 100% CIG under VSG control and quantifies the minimum conditions for frequency support to sustain the system under 100% CIG. Simulations are carried out considering the worst contingency in the Irish grid which is the loss of largest infeed, namely, the disconnection of the HVDC interconnector to the UK. The results are compared and discussed considering other scenarios that include primary frequency control of conventional power plants.