Load sharing using droop control for parallel operation of matrix converters as distributed generator interfaces in isolated mode

Abstract

Matrix converter (MC) can be used as ac type distributed generator (DG) interface in microgrid. Reverse power flow operation of MC can be implemented to meet voltage boost requirement, where the input ac generator is connected to the converter's voltage source side and the output utility grid or load is connected to the current source side. During grid fault or intentional islanded operation, the DGs need to supply local loads with high quality voltage and share the loads proportionally to their power ratings. This paper proposes droop control strategy for two parallel MCs with two separate DGs to share common loads in isolated operation mode. Through the adjustment of load side frequency and voltage amplitude using the droop characteristic of P/ω and Q/V, the load side active/reactive powers can be shared properly among the DGs. Load side voltages and generator side currents should be controlled coordinately to make sure that the generator side active power reference is derived from the load side power consumption in a single MC. Simulation results are provided to validate the effectiveness of the control schemes for the proposed parallel MC system.