A holistic approach to power quality parameter optimization in AC coupling Off-Grid systems

The development of autonomous energy systems has been accompanied by a number of challenges related to the specific characteristics of these systems, such as power flow control, development of protection systems respecting the dynamic changes in short-circuit power and the issue of compliance with power quality parameters. To keep the power quality parameters of electrical energy in Off-Grid systems within the limit is highly complicated with regards to the supply of electrical energy from renewable sources of a stochastic nature, which are used as dominant sources of electric or heat energy. Variations in short-circuit power may significantly affect the system stability and may have a negative impact on the operation in case of sensitive appliances. We developed tools and methods to keep the power quality parameters in Off-Grid systems within the limits using an intelligent approach based on an artificial intelligence technique. Our computational model is able to predict disturbances in power quality and perform a set of proper reactions to avoid such disturbances with over 60% success rate in time horizon of 15 min ahead. As a result, it is subsequently possible to optimize the operation of Off-Grid systems and thus contribute to improvements in the power quality parameters in Off-Grid systems. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.