Multifunctional Platform for Measurement, Control, and Communication in AC Microgrids: A New Energy Gateway Concept

• Grant number: 25/08820-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: May 31, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Power Systems
• Principal Investigator: Helmo Kelis Morales Paredes
• Grantee: Bruno Oliveira Zarpellon
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia (FE). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This project proposes the development of a new concept of Energy Gateway (EG), a multifunctional and intelligent device designed for monitoring and controlling AC microgrids. The EG will be capable of communicating with all four hierarchical control layers (local, primary, secondary, and tertiary), in compliance with IEEE 1547 and IEEE 2030.7 standards. The proposal aims to address gaps in the current literature by integrating, into a single device, advanced measurement functions, inverter control capabilities, and communication protocols. The project involves the development of a unified hardware platform that incorporates real-time measurement functions based on power theories such as CPT and IEEE 1459, intelligent local inverter control, responsibility assignment mechanisms, and support for multiple communication protocols (IEEE 2030.5, SunSpec, DNP3), ensuring high interoperability. Validation will be carried out through real-time simulations using the OPAL-RT platform and experimental testing, including the construction of at least two functional prototypes at the GASI/UNESP microgrid laboratory, tested under adverse conditions such as harmonic distortions, unbalances, and load variations. The main expected contributions include the development of an innovative EG compatible with the demands of modern power networks, improvements in power quality (PQ), and enhanced operational resilience of microgrids. (AU)