Grid-Forming Inverter-Based Resources and Protection: Modeling, Assessment, and Recommendations for Future Power Grids

• Grant number: 25/15469-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• Start date: August 15, 2026
• End date: August 14, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Power Systems
• Principal Investigator: Mário Oleskovicz
• Grantee: Moisés Junior Batista Borges Davi
• Supervisor: Oriol Gomis Bellmunt
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), Spain
• Associated to the scholarship: 24/17884-3 - Methodologies for Protection and Fault Diagnosis in Grid-Forming Inverter-Based Resource-Dominated Systems, BP.PD

Abstract

The global energy transition and rapid integration of renewable sources are fundamentally transforming modern power systems. Inverter-Based Resources (IBR), especially those operating in grid-forming (GFM) mode, are becoming central to these networks and gradually replacing synchronous generators. While GFM IBR enhance system stability, particularly in low-inertia scenarios, their large-scale use brings new challenges for traditional protection schemes designed for conventional grids. This project seeks to advance both the modeling and protection of power systems dominated by GFM IBR. With the support of the researchers and infrastructure at the Centre for Technological Innovation in Static Converters and Drives (CITCEA) at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), the project will commence by conducting an updated and comprehensive review of advanced GFM control strategies. This review will focus on key aspects, including synchronization loop, voltage and current regulation, and fault current management mechanisms. Building on this foundation, models will be developed in MATLAB and/or PSCAD to accurately represent advanced grid configurations relevant to protection and fault analysis. Knowledge exchange with CITCEA-UPC experts and the use of their laboratory infrastructure will enable critical analysis of conventional protection performance under these emerging grid conditions. The main objective is to present targeted technical recommendations and/or propose new protection methodologies specifically adapted to the characteristics of GFM IBR-dominated networks. The outcomes are expected to provide scientific advances in the reliable integration of renewable energy, foster international collaboration, and contribute practical solutions to the challenges of the global energy transition.