Date of Graduation
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Advisor/Mentor
McCann, Roy A.
Committee Member
Younes Velosa, Camilo
Second Committee Member
Wu, Jingxian
Keywords
Inverter-Based Resources; Regulatory; Reliability; Reliability Standards; Stability
Abstract
The increasing penetration of renewable energy, particularly inverter-based resources (IBRs), has reshaped the dynamics of modern power systems. This thesis investigates the impact of regulatory compliance, especially frequency ride-through requirements under NERC PRC-029-1, on the performance and reliability of interconnected multi-area systems. Using a MATLAB/Simulink-based state-space model built on the foundational structure proposed by Murty [31] and augmented with advanced control methods such as Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) control from Mackey and McCann [32] and further refined in the context of IBR damping by Alsarray and McCann [33], we explore three configurations of a three-area load frequency control (LFC) system. These include a baseline scenario with conventional synchronous generators, an IBR scenario without ride-through compliance, and a compliant IBR scenario implementing PRC-029-1 thresholds. Each configuration is tested using a step disturbance in Area 2 to evaluate frequency deviation, power exchange, mechanical output, and control inputs.
Simulation results highlight the adverse effects of non-compliant IBRs, including increased frequency instability and the shifting of dynamic burden to remaining synchronous areas. In contrast, compliant IBRs that remain connected during transients significantly improve system damping and maintain inter-area balance. The findings underscore the importance of Reliability Standards in ensuring grid stability amid rising renewable penetration. The study concludes that thoughtful integration of control strategies and compliance logic is instrumental in enabling the reliable operation of future low-inertia power systems.
Citation
Honarmand, P. (2025). Regulatory Compliance Standards and Power System Reliability: A Study on Inverter-Based Resources. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/5747
