Rapid system prototype‐based physical simulation platforms for power systems with high penetration of inverter‐based resources

Abstract The traditional power system dominated by synchronous generators is gradually evolving into a power system with high penetration of inverter‐based resources (IBRs). In this paper, the new characteristics that arise from the high penetration of IBRs in power systems are reviewed. In light of these characteristics, current simulation technologies are inadequate and new requirements for the simulation platforms have been proposed. In response, this paper introduces the rapid system prototype (RSP)‐based physical simulation platforms, which include the digital simulator, the rapid prototype controller, and the rapid object‐controlled prototype. RSP addresses the time‐consuming and labour‐intensive shortcomings of traditional simulation techniques and meets the rapid evolution needs of the power system with high penetration of IBRs. Compared with existing simulation platforms, RSP is a more suitable platform for the physical simulation of power systems with high penetration of IBRs. Using the modular multilevel converter‐based high‐voltage direct current as a case study, a novel physical simulation platform for power systems based on RSP is constructed. Experimental results demonstrate that the RSP concept and technology can establish an enterprise‐level simulation environment and engineering practice platform. Moreover, it can provide realistic and flexible simulations of various characteristics of power systems with high penetration of IBRs.