Complex-Frequency Synchronization of Converter-Based Power Systems

Abstract: In this paper, we study phase-amplitude multivariable dynamics in converter-based power systems from a complex-frequency perspective. Complex frequency represents the rate of change of voltage amplitude and phase angle by its real and imaginary parts, respectively. This emerging notion is of significance as it accommodates the multivariable characteristics of power networks where active and reactive power are inherently coupled with both voltage amplitude and phase. We propose the notion of complex-frequency synchronization to study the phase-amplitude multivariable stability issue in a power system with dispatchable virtual oscillator-controlled (dVOC) converters. To achieve this, we separate the system into linear fast dynamics and approximately linear slow dynamics. The linearity property makes it tractable to analyze fast complex-frequency synchronization and slower voltage stabilization. From the perspective of complex frequency and complex-frequency synchronization, we provide novel insights into the equivalence of dVOC and complex-power-frequency droop control, stability analysis methods, and stability criteria. Our study offers a practical solution to address challenging stability issues in converter-based power systems.