Research

This paper studies real-time hybrid co-simulation of voltage regulation in the University of California San Diego (UCSD) microgrid. We integrate a hardware inverter controller with two subsystems simultaneously simulated in RTDS and Typhoon HIL platforms within a single framework. Using real-time load metering data, we emulate realistic conditions of the UCSD microgrid. To enhance voltage regulation, we employ centralized and distributed algorithms based on a second-order conic relaxation of the nonlinear voltage regulation formulation. These algorithms are tested in a hybrid physical and simulation environment using the physical assets of the distributed energy resources connect (DERConnect) testbed under various realtime loading scenarios, providing a realistic testing ground. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness and suitability of these algorithms for distributed voltage regulation in real-world microgrid scenarios. This research advances practical simulation of voltage control strategies in microgrids, with potential applications in enhancing the stability, scalability, and efficiency of power distribution systems.

The growth of and reliance on renewable energy necessitate a multi-pronged approach to achieve grid reliability and economics. As they represent a notable portion of U.S. energy consumption, commercial buildings must play an active role in this effort. Conserving energy and responding to grid conditions through demand flexibility can be achieved through the integration of major building systems. Integration of plug and process loads with lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems maximizes the effectiveness of integrated building energy management. In this research, we demonstrate the integration of smart outlets into a building automation system. We cover the installation process as well as the architecture required for smart outlets to communicate data to the building automation system and to receive commands back. After recording power measurements for one week as a baseline, we configured the building automation system to turn the smart outlets on and off according to a set schedule. This resulted in energy savings of 66% during 1 week on 25 plug loads. This work demonstrates that grid-interactive efficient buildings are achievable through building system integration.