The Need for Grid-forming Inverters in Future Power Systems

More variable renewables such and wind and solar are integrated into electric power grids because of the declining cost of renewables and the increasing need to meet clean energy goals. Wind and solar differ from traditional generation in that they, along with battery systems, use power electronic inverters to interface with the grid. Historically these inverters followed the voltage profiles from the grid produced by synchronous generators and injected power by following the voltage waveforms. As we approach times in the day on some power systems where a majority of production is provided by inverter-based resources, there is a need for grid-forming controls. This presentation will discuss the need for these grid-forming inverters and how to ensure stable grid operations in future power systems.