Experimental study of smart buildings providing fast frequency response

As the penetration of renewable energy increases, the mechanical inertia of the power system decreases, weakening the system’s ability to withstand disturbances, particularly during large frequency events. Smart buildings on the demand side show promise as candidates for providing frequency regulation. This paper presents a fast frequency response test for smart buildings. A series of tests, including frequency step tests, frequency ramp tests, and hybrid tests, were conducted to assess the fast frequency response performance of smart buildings. The results indicate that the building has regulation capabilities comparable to traditional generator units in primary frequency control and demonstrates strong potential for fast frequency response. These findings are now being used to guide the development of standards for demand-side adjustable resources participating in fast frequency response.