Frequency Control and Optimal Operation of Low-Inertia Power Systems with HVDC and Renewable Energy: A Review

With the integration of large-scale renewable energy sources (RES) and high voltage direct current (HVDC) based inter-regional transmission, modern power systems are facing low-inertia issues and poor frequency regulation capabilities. This paper conducts a comprehensive review on frequency control and optimal operation methods in this context. First, the frequency characteristic of a low-inertia power system is analyzed covering the whole frequency response process. Secondly, the impacts of RES and HVDC integration on system inertia and frequency performance are studied, and the system frequency characteristics considering RES and HVDC are analyzed. Then, the frequency response modes of various frequency regulation resources are compared from the perspective of “source-grid-load-storage”, including their basic control principles and frequency control strategies. Further, from the operation dispatch perspective, the frequency security-constrained power system optimal operation methods are reviewed. Finally, future research trends in this area are discussed.