A novel control algorithm for the DG interface to mitigate power quality problems

Distributed Generation (DG) exists in distribution systems and is installed by either the utility or the customers. This paper proposes a novel utilization of the existing DG nonlinear interface not only to control the active power flow, but also to mitigate unbalance and harmonics, and to manage the reactive power of the system. The proposed Flexible Distributed Generation (FDG) is similar in functionality to FACTS, but works at the distribution level. Moreover, a novel ADAptive LINEar neuron (ADALINE) structure is presented. The new structure is applied to multi output (MO) systems for parameter tracking/estimation, and is called MO-ADALINE. It is dedicated to symmetrical components estimation. The control loop combines a Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) for voltage regulation, and a processing unit-based ADALINE to deal with unbalance, harmonics and reactive power compensation. One advantage of the proposed control system is its insensitivity to parameter variation, a necessity for distribution system applications. Simulations of the suggested FDG based control algorithm are conducted to evaluate the performance of the novel system. Index Terms--Adaptive estimation, distributed generation, fuzzy control, harmonic distortion, power quality, reactive power control, voltage control.