Integration of Renewable Energy Sources into Smart Microgrids: A Stability and Control Perspective

Abstract

The global shift toward decarbonization and energy decentralization has accelerated the integration of renewable energy sources (RES) such as solar photovoltaic and wind power into smart microgrids. While this transition enhances sustainability and energy access, it also introduces significant challenges related to system stability and control. Unlike conventional power systems with high rotational inertia, RES-dominated microgrids are converter-interfaced and often lack the inherent stabilizing properties of traditional generation, leading to issues in frequency regulation, voltage control, and transient response. This paper explores the architecture and dynamic behavior of smart microgrids with high RES penetration, focusing on the associated stability challenges and control strategies.
We analyze hierarchical control frameworks comprising primary, secondary, and tertiary layers and compare centralized, decentralized, and distributed control paradigms. Particular emphasis is placed on state-of-the-art techniques as of 2024, including model predictive control (MPC), artificial intelligence-driven adaptive control, and the emerging role of blockchain in secure and autonomous coordination. Case studies from North America, Europe, and sub-Saharan Africa illustrate the operational complexities and solutions in real-world microgrids. Additionally, we present simulation-based insights into the impact of RES variability and the effectiveness of various control schemes.
The paper concludes by identifying key research gaps as of 2024, including the need for scalable distributed architectures, enhanced cybersecurity protocols, and the integration of electric vehicles and bidirectional energy flows. This study contributes to ongoing discourse by offering a comprehensive and current perspective on how smart microgrids can maintain stability and resilience amid increasing reliance on renewable energy.