On Simulation of Power Systems and Microgrid Components with SystemC-AMS

Abstract: Cyber-physical systems such as microgrids consist of interconnected components, localized power systems, and distributed energy resources with clearly defined electrical boundaries. They can function independently but can also work in tandem with the main grid. Power system converters and their control loops play an essential role in stabilizing grids and interfacing a microgrid with the main grid. The optimal selection of microgrid components for installation is expensive. Simulation of microgrids provides a cost-effective solution. However, when studying the electromagnetic transient response, their simulation is slow. Furthermore, software packages facilitating electromagnetic transient response may be prohibitively expensive. This paper presents a faster method for simulating the electromagnetic transient response of microgrid components using SystemC-AMS. We present a use case of a photovoltaic grid-following inverter with a phase-locked loop to track reference active and reactive power. Our results demonstrate that the simulation performed using SystemC-AMS is roughly three times faster than the benchmark simulation conducted using Simulink. Our implementation of a photovoltaic grid-following inverter equipped with a phase-locked loop for monitoring reference active and reactive power reveals that the simulation executed using SystemC-AMS is approximately three times faster than the benchmark simulation carried out using Simulink. Our implementation adopts a model-based design and produces a library of components that can be used to construct increasingly complex grid architectures. Additionally, the C-based nature allows for the integration of external libraries for added real-time capability and optimization functionality. We also present a use case for real-time simulation using a DC microgrid with a constant resistive load.