Real-time Model Development of the IEEE Benchmark Distribution Feeder Test System for Microgrid Stability and Controls

The importance of power system real-time modeling and simulation is now evident due to its ability to support developers during design, prototyping and verification processes. Studying challenges faced during substantial integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) and distribution loads imposes diverse dynamic characteristics onto microgrids that need to be fully addressed from stability standpoint. This paper discusses the development of a real-time model of a microgrid distribution test case introduced in a prevalent IEEE PES technical report entitled IEEE PES-TR66. The model is developed using MATLAB/Simulink and RT-LAB tools employing switching equivalent circuits for power electronic components to build up DERs, solar PV and battery energy storage as well as distribution loads, such as variable-speed drives. Comparative performance analysis of the obtained results is provided for the developed benchmark test system during steady-state and transients. This real-time use case model is helpful to analyze microgrid stability and verify control designs to understand dynamics of a distribution feeder with multiple connected DERs for real-time hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and controller HIL studies.