Frequency Dynamics of the European System during Split Integrating Grid-Forming Capabilities

Abstract

The work examines the Continental Europe power system for an actual split event occurred in 2021. The behaviour of the system after the split is first replicated with a specific dynamic simulation model. The validated model is then further developed and extended to investigate the frequency dynamics of the split event, assuming the European system in a scenario characterized by high integration of renewable energy sources interfaced through power converters. The implementation of the non-synchronous generation sources in the simulation model of the system is realized considering two different control concepts for the converters, a grid-following and a grid-forming control. The simulations are performed for different values of relevant parameters for the converters control and different operating conditions for the non-synchronous generation sources. Analysis and results suggest that the integration of non-synchronous generation sources might not necessarily imply only challenges, but rather they can participate in the frequency control and provide an essential contribution to the frequency stability of the system, especially under critical conditions like the system separation.