Dynamical modelling and control of a hybrid link in the context of an energy island

Details

Supervisors

De Jaeger, Emmanuel

Faculty

Ecole polytechnique de Louvain

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur civil en génie de l'énergie , à finalité spécialisée
Master [120] : ingénieur civil électricien, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

enIn response to the environmental impact of conventional electricity power generation, and motivated by geopolitical and economic considerations, there is a shift towards renewable energy sources. To support the integration of future offshore wind farms along the Belgian coast, Elia, Belgium’s electricity transmission system operator, is developing the Princess Elisabeth Island, the world’s first artificial energy island, featuring a hybrid transmission system to the mainland, combining HVDC (High-Voltage Direct Current) and HVAC (High-Voltage Alternating Current) technologies. This hybrid configuration is both novel and technically complex, requiring detailed analysis to predict its behaviour and impact on the existing power grid. This thesis presents a comprehensive modelling and simulation study of the island’s electric system using MATLAB Simulink. First, the hybrid transmission link is analysed in detail. The HVDC system is modelled, including its control strategies and operational principles, while the HVAC connection is incorporated to represent the full hybrid topology. Afterwards, wind turbine technologies are covered, with a particular focus on Doubly-Fed Induction Generators (DFIG). A method for aggregating multiple wind turbines into a single equivalent wind turbine model is also presented. Finally, the overall electric system is simulated to evaluate the proper functioning of the developed model. This work resulted in the detailed comprehension of the Princess Elisabeth Island grid and the development of a preliminary model in MATLAB Simulink. It can serve as a foundation for further studies on this system, such as analysing its robustness, stability, control optimization, and grid integration, contributing to the reliable and efficient deployment of large-scale offshore renewable energy.