Grid-forming for HVDC, STATCOM and E-STATCOM

The shift towards inverter-based power supplies, including renewables, batteries, and other solutions, is transforming the role of power electronics in the grid. Unlike traditional synchronous generators, these technologies are not physically synchronized to the grid, leading to new challenges in maintaining grid stability and security of supply. Grid-forming solutions address these challenges by providing flexible and resilient responses to grid disturbances, enhancing overall grid stability and energy security.

Siemens Energy is at the forefront of this transition, leading the way with cutting-edge grid-forming inverters that deliver essential grid stability, inertia, and resilience. Advanced grid-forming technology supports renewable energy integration, microgrids, and system restoration, ensuring a secure and reliable power supply in evolving energy landscapes. By enabling seamless integration of diverse energy sources, the grid-forming solutions are pivotal in building a sustainable and resilient power grid for the future.

Grid-forming refers to the capability of certain inverters, known as grid-forming inverters, to establish and maintain stable voltage and frequency in a power system. These inverters play a crucial role in modern power systems, especially as grids transition towards distributed generation and incorporate more inverter-based resources (IBRs) like wind turbines, photovoltaic arrays, and batteries.

As the number of these installations grows, so does the potential for interaction problems, which can lead to reduced grid stability. The shift away from synchronous machines weakens the grid, increasing the risk of transient voltage instability and converter instability in grid-following systems. While improved controls and parameter tuning can mitigate some risks, they have limitations.

Grid-forming inverters are essential for low-inertia grids dominated by renewables, as they actively regulate voltage and frequency, providing the necessary stability and resilience. They are also critical for the restoration of meshed networks, addressing the challenges posed by the evolving energy landscape.

Most power electronic systems today utilize grid-following inverter controls. As their use and installed capacity continue to grow, understanding the characteristics, dynamic behavior, and potential contribution to grid reliability of these inverters becomes increasingly important. While both grid-forming and grid-following controls are designed to supply active and reactive power to the grid, their responses during and after system disturbances differ significantly.

Grid-forming inverters actively regulate voltage and frequency, providing stability and resilience, whereas grid-following inverters depend on existing grid conditions to operate effectively. This distinction highlights the crucial role of grid-forming technology in enhancing grid reliability amidst the evolving energy landscape.

Overview of our portfolio of grid-forming capabilities, products and solutions.

Siemens Energy's grid-forming inverters offer a range of advantages that are essential for modern power systems, enhancing both performance and sustainability.