Black Start Real-time Simulation Analysis with Grid-Forming Energy Storage System

Following large-scale power outages, black start capability is essential for power system restoration, relying on self-starting power sources to sequentially energize non-self-starting units. While pumped-storage hydropower plants remain the primary black start resource, grid-forming energy storage systems (GF-ESS)- equipped with autonomous voltage/phase control and isolated grid operation capabilities-show significant potential as alternative black start sources. This paper establishes a real-time simulation platform and methodology for black-starting thermal power generating units using GF-ESS. A semi-physical simulation based on the RTDS platform analyzed critical stages, including voltage ramp-up, auxiliary equipment startup, load restoration, and fault recovery. The results validate the feasibility of employing GF-ESS for black-starting thermal power units, despite challenges such as harmonic distortion during load transitions.