Simulation and control of consumption and generation of hardware resources in microgrid real-time digital simulator

The appearance of new concepts in power systems, such as, smart grids and microgrids brings several advantages. This includes the use of distributed generation and the execution of demand response programs. However, their implementation can also bring management and stability problems. The system presented in this paper allows the real-time simulation of microgrids using real generation and consumption resources. The proposed system can follow real profiles and reply them into the simulation by using real loads and wind generation. The focus is given to the control of the resources in each desired consumption and generation requirement. The case studies use a real consumption profile of a residential house, small commerce facility and a real profile of a home-scale wind turbine. The use of real loads gives a more reliable simulation.