PhD Studentship: Data-driven modelling of inverter-based resources towards efficient converter-driven stability investigations

This project provides an annual stipend of £19,237. 

Project advert

The smart grid concept is paving the way towards efficient, reliable, and sustainable power systems. Inverter-based resources (IBRs) are among the most crucial components of the smart grid, interfacing renewable energy sources, storage devices, and loads. As the control-based dynamics of these devices become of utmost interest for the overall power system operation, their control and stability has emerged as a prominent research topic, while a new power system stability classification, namely the “converter-driven stability,” has recently been introduced in this regard.

This project will utilise both theoretical skills (e.g., statistics, control design, and stability analysis) and practical tools (e.g., offline simulation and laboratory experiments) to develop and validate novel data-driven modelling approaches, which can guarantee the closed-loop system stability of inverter-based power systems, while taking into consideration the involved dynamics.

Project aims and objectives

This project will focus on developing equivalent models of IBRs, aiding the control and stability analysis of inverter-based power systems, through the appropriate converter-driven stability investigations. Emphasis will be given on faithfully considering the dynamic model of the inverter-based resources, e.g., by modelling their DC dynamics and the primary energy resources. Thus, the project’s objectives may include:

• The full dynamic modelling of IBRs of different nature (e.g., RES, storage, HVDC).
• The derivation of equivalent models of IBRs, particularly focusing on their DC-side dynamics, and through utilising machine learning techniques.
• The design of hierarchical control approaches that take into consideration the DC-side dynamics of IBRs and provide stability guarantees.
• The validation of the developed control approaches through software simulation, hardware-in-the-loop simulation and experimental setups of power electronic converters and their controls.

The project is supported and co-funded by Enspec Power Ltd. and may involve a period of work at the company to obtain experience of the state-of-the-art application of the principles in industry. This is likely to be 3 months at the end of the 1^st year of studies.

Specific requirements of the candidate

Qualifications

• An undergraduate degree in Electrical or Control or Power Systems Engineering.
• An MSc degree in Electrical or Control or Power Systems Engineering would be desirable.

Skills

• Excellent knowledge of electrical and electronic engineering principles.
• Deep understanding of statistics, control systems, and relevant analysis methods.
• Experience with simulation of power systems and power electronics, and/or laboratory experience.
• Strong motivation towards high quality research.
• Able to work as part of an interdisciplinary research team.

How to apply

For an informal discussion regarding the requirements of the position, please contact Dr Alexandros Paspatis (a.paspatis@mmu.ac.uk).

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Engineering (or download the PGR application form).

You should also complete the (PGR thesis proposal and a Narrative CV) form addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have maps to the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest. 

If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section, or email the application form and statement to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.

Closing date: 14 October 2024. Expected start date: January 2025 for Home students and April 2025 for International students. 

Please quote the reference: SciEng-2024-Data-Driven-Modelling

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