Research on Control Method of Variable-speed Pumped Storage Unit Based on RTDS Simulation

Variable-speed pumped-storage units offer enhanced flexibility in integrating new energy sources and adapting to new types of power systems, and they have gradually been promoted and applied. Correspondingly, research on control strategies and experimental studies has become a hot topic. This article is based on the complete characteristic curve data of the Fengning variable-speed pumped-storage units, which are the first set of their kind to be applied in our country, and has built a series of models including pump-turbines, hydraulic actuators, generator motors, and power networks on the RTDS simulation system. It also integrates variable-speed unit governors, excitation systems, coordinated control, and monitoring equipment to construct a hybrid simulation test platform. Through this platform, we have conducted in-depth studies on the regulation effects of variable-speed pumped-storage units under two working conditions—generation and pumping—using speed priority and power priority control modes. We have also conducted regulation experiments for different working modes of the governor (opening mode, power mode, speed mode). We analyzed the test waveforms and drew comparative conclusions, providing valuable references for the domestication process and practical engineering applications of variable-speed units in China. This research not only demonstrates the potential of variable-speed pumped-storage units in enhancing grid regulation capabilities and optimizing the absorption of new energy but also provides a solid theoretical foundation and practical guidance for technological progress and engineering practices in this field in our country.