This paper applies the adaptive gradient descent method to the second-order generalized integrator (SOGI) filter in order to find an online estimation algorithm for the grid frequency, which leads to the proposal of three possible estimators. One of them is identical to the frequency-locked loop algorithm reported in the literature, which proves that it should be understood as a gradient descent estimation algorithm and not as a “frequency locked loop.” The proposed gradient descent estimators are simple and suitable to be implemented into a digital processor with small computational burden. However, due to the SOGI characteristics, the estimators show to be especially sensitive to subharmonic and dc-offset voltage distortion. These problems are removed adopting a cascaded double SOGI approach, which strongly increases the rejection capability to harmonics and enhances the response to voltage sags. Simulation and experimental results are provided to validate the proposed contribution.

This paper presents a variable structure control in natural frame for a three-phase gird-connected voltage-source inverter with LCL filter. The proposed control method is based on modifying the converter model in natural reference frame, preserving the low-frequency state-space variables dynamics. Using this model in a Kalman filter (KF), the system state-space variables are estimated allowing us to design three independent current sliding-mode controllers. The main closed-loop features of the proposed method are: first, robustness against grid inductance variations because the proposed model is independent of the grid inductance; second, the power losses are reduced since physical damping resistors are avoided; third, the control bandwidth can be increased due to the combination of a variable hysteresis comparator with the KF; and fourth, the grid-side current is directly controlled providing high robustness against harmonics in the grid. To complete the control scheme, a theoretical stability analysis is developed. Finally, selected experimental results validate the proposed control strategy and permit illustrating all its appealing features.

Renewable energy is increasingly mobilizing more investment around the globe. However, there has been little attention to evaluating economic and regulatory (E&R) uncertainties, despite their enormous impact on the project cashflows. Consequently, this review analyzes, classifies, and discusses 130 articles dealing with the design of renewable energy projects under E&R uncertainties. After performing a survey and identifying the selected manuscripts, and the few previous reviews on the matter, the following innovative categorization is designed: sources of uncertainty, uncertainty characterization methods, problem formulations, solution methods, and regulatory frameworks. The classification reveals that electricity price is the most considered source of uncertainty, often alone, despite the existence of six other equally influential groups of E&R uncertainties. In addition, real options and optimization arise as the two main approaches researchers use to solve problems in energy system design. Subsequently, the following aspects of interest are discussed in depth: how modeling can be improved, which are the most influential variables, and potential lines of research. Conclusions show the necessity of modeling E&R uncertainties with currently underrepresented methods, suggest several policy recommendations, and encourage the integration of prevailing approaches.

This work presents a novel approach to the experimental validation of the optimal PV-to-inverter sizing ratio value for the energy yield maximization of a GCPVS by means the implementation of a custom workbench using a solar array simulator which has allowed to replicate a wide variety of technical configurations and environmental data. The compliance between the experimental setup and the mathematical model developed to simulate the optimal PV-to-inverter sizing ratio value was demonstrated by the specific tests carried out on its two main subsystems (the PV generator and the inverter), thus the subsequent simulations were made on a firm basis. Likewise, the evaluation of the overall system also showed a good agreement between the experimental and the simulated energy yield and optimal PV-to-inverter sizing ratio results, rendering relative errors below 3% for both magnitudes. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author’s final draft

The aim of this article is to develop a novel distributed direct power sliding-mode control for an islanded AC microgrid. This solution replaces the droop mechanism of each inverter with two separate sliding surfaces working as primary/secondary controllers. The design of these surfaces is based on the dynamic model of the active and reactive powers to enhance the robustness against line impedance mismatches. Moreover, a theoretical stability analysis is presented. The main features of this proposed control are to regulate the voltage and frequency achieving an accurate active and reactive power sharing, achieve stability under a wide range of line impedances, and provide robustness toward external disturbances, including communication failures. Finally, the experimental results verify the controller performance, the stability with different line impedances, and the robustness against communication partitions.

A thorough analysis of the Concentrating Solar Thermal Power (CSP) development in Spain in the period 1998–2013 has been carried out in order to identify the main drivers behind the bubble-like behaviour exhibited by this renewable technology. Tending a parallelism with the basic principles of the control systems theory has facilitated the identification of the main shortcomings in the design of the various control frameworks governing the CSP deployment in the studied period. The CSP disorderly proliferation propitiated by inefficient control mechanisms has resulted in an overrun cost to the electricity system that has tried to be mitigated with the application of retroactive measures seriously harmful for the investors. It is expected that the conclusions drawn from this comprehensive review of the Spanish case have a general relevance for other countries undertaking the development path of renewable technologies.Postprint (author’s final draft