Avista Microgrid Automatic Generator Controller

To ensure power system stability for Avista's future microgrid for the Spokane area, an Automated Generator Controller (AGC) will be implemented to maintain system frequency and regulate bus voltage.

Problem Statement
System load variation has a direct impact on the system frequency. The frequencies of each hydro-generator are designated by their share of the system load and the amount of system load. An increase in system load will decrease the system frequency and vice versa. This also applies to the generator level; an increase in a generator’s load will decrease the operation frequency of the generator. The steady state speed characteristics of each generator will need to be examined in order to develop a control scheme for generator frequency. Once developed, the control scheme will distribute loads to the two generators to maintain the set frequency of each generator and thus maintain frequency stability for the entire system.

Project Definition
Our Capstone Design Project would like to be responsible for designing an Automated Generator Controller (AGC) for the two hydro-powered generators on the Spokane River. The designed AGC will set and maintain the system frequency by monitoring the loads powered by each generator and controlling the distribution of load between them with variation in system load. The AGC will also be responsible for frequency restoration by controlling the increase or decrease of flow through the turbine as an input power compensator. The AGC will be specifically designed to operate during Micro-grid operation and will be verified using mathematical models in conjunction with other Avista Micro-grid research teams.

Team Meeting Minutes

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