Cooperative control of electronic power processors in micro-grids

Micro-grids offer a new challenging domain for power electronics, since they include a variety of power sources and electronic power processors (EPP) interacting each other. In micro-grids, energy efficiency requires smart control of power flow, and power quality calls for voltage support by reactive power regulation, suppression of voltage distortion at load terminals and limitation of current harmonics at utility interface. Pursuing such complex duties requires EPP to perform cooperatively, irrespective of type and power rating. This paper provides a background to cooperative control of distributed EPP in micro-grids, where power capability is limited, voltage supply is often distorted and distribution line impedances play a significant role.