Cooperative Control of Hydrogen Electrolyzers and HVDC Links for Frequency Regulation Sharing in Asynchronous Power System

Frequency stability in low-inertia power systems has become a significant concern due to the growing integration of inverter-based distributed renewable generation. High-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems offer an effective solution for enhancing frequency stability in asynchronous multi-area power grids. Additionally, hydrogen electrolyzers, such as proton exchange membrane electrolyzers (PEMELs), can support frequency regulation. This paper proposes a cooperative control strategy involving HVDC systems and PEMEL controllers to share frequency regulation responsibilities in asynchronously interconnected power systems. The benefits of utilizing PEMELs for frequency regulation are demonstrated, enabling the coordinated distribution of frequency control between two interconnected power areas via HVDC links. Distributed model predictive controls (DMPCs) are employed to synchronize the operation of the HVDC systems and PEMEL controllers. The effectiveness of the DMPC-based coordinated control of PEMEL and HVDC systems is thoroughly investigated and analyzed. Simulation results confirm that the proposed cooperative control strategy significantly improves the frequency stability of the studied system, even under disturbance conditions.