Experimental Implementation of Direct Transformer Energization using Voltage Control Grid-Forming

Transformer energization presents significant challenges in power systems due to the high inrush currents and harmonic distortion associated with direct and sequential energization. Historically, synchronous generators have provided robustness in such scenarios due to their ability to sustain large overcurrents. However, as power electronic converters are increasingly integrated into modern grids, their lack of inherent overcurrent capability makes them vulnerable to tripping during transformer energization events. This paper implements a Voltage Control Grid-Forming (VCGFM) strategy to mitigate inrush currents during transformer energization and maintain voltage quality in steady-state conditions. The method is experimentally validated using a LV Power Hardware-In-the-Loop (PHIL) setup.