Real-Time Simulation and Hardware-in-the-LoopApproaches for Integrating Renewable EnergySources into Smart Grids: Challenges & Actions

Abstract

International audienceThe integration of distributed renewable energysources and the multi-domain behaviours inside the cyberphysicalenergy system (smart grids) draws up major challenges.Their validation and roll out requires careful assessment, in termof modelling, simulation and testing. The traditional approachfocusing on a particular object, actual hardware or a detailedmodel, while drastically simplifying the remainder of the systemunder test, is no longer sufficient. Real-time simulation andHardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) techniques emerge as indispensabletools for validating the behaviour of renewable sources as well astheir impact/interaction to with the cyber-physical energy system.This paper aims to provide an overview of the present status-quoof real-time and HIL approaches used for smart grids and theirreadiness for cyber-physical experiments. We investigate the currentlimitations of HIL techniques and point out necessary futuredevelopments. Subsequently, the paper highlights challenges thatneed specific attention as well as ongoing actions and furtherresearch directions