Control and optimization of electric power systems

The physical character of the power grid is changing due to renewable generation, energy storage, direct current (DC) transmission, and their power electronic interfaces. For example, converters improve the controllability of the grid, and at the same time introduce harmonics, new protection issues, and dynamics on previously inert timescales. This research will address system-level problems in future power systems. Today many basic questions are unanswered, for example: (i) what is the most economic and reliable transmission network structure for an AC/DC grid? There may be multiple types of converters and configurations to choose from, and objectives can include steady-state metrics like efficiency, and dynamic objectives like suppression of oscillations; (ii) what new information structures arise in power systems with many converters, and how can these information structures be exploited in dispatch and regulation; and (iii) how should DC transmission lines allocate their capacity over multiple services like bulk power transfer, reserves, and regulation. In this case, what are the right economic mechanisms for incentivizing proper market participation? This research will address these questions using tools from control theory and optimization. For example, structural systems theory is a promising approach to understanding how converters improve the controllability of bulk power systems. The problem of allocating DC line capacity over multiple services is similar to the well-studied problem of allocating energy storage capacity over multiple services, but in a network setting and without energy constraints. The solution to these and other problems will inform the design and operation of future power systems, improving its efficiency and reliability and further enabling the integration of renewable energy sources.