A Review of Control Strategies for Microgrid with PV-Wind Hybrid Generation Systems

Abstract

The concept of microgrid has been attracting a lot of interest among researchers and investors over the last decade. This is because it offers a promising technology towards the utilization of distributed renewable energy resources, notably Photovoltaic (PV) and Wind hybrid generation systems in islanded or grid-connected mode. The main problem currently facing utilization of PV-Wind based distributed generation systems is that of consolidating the power and controlling its voltage and frequency levels on the right scale for either off-grid or on-grid utilization. This is due to their intermittency in power outputs and geographical fragmentations. Thus there is need to coalesce such power units into microgrids with reliable storage systems which can be better managed using a microgrid control system. This study aims at reviewing the advances made towards the utilization of microgrid control systems incorporating PV-Wind generation units with emphasis on the applicable microgrid control strategies and principles. Based on the review conducted, it was noted that every control strategy has its merits, demerits, level of efficiency and cost. Further, to address the control challenges of the PV-Wind hybrid generation system, a Multilevel Microgrid Control System (MMCS) utilizing appropriate artificial intelligence has been proposed. The research directions in this field are geared towards the
use of artificial intelligence to optimize performance of the system.