Fuzzy logic-based adaptive virtual inertia control for enhancing frequency stability in low-inertia microgrids

Abstract

The increasing integration of renewable energy sources (RES) is accelerating the shift from traditional synchronous machine-based power systems to inverter-dominated grids. This transition poses significant frequency stability challenges, as power electronic interfaces lack the inherent kinetic energy storage of conventional generators, resulting in low system inertia. To address these challenges, this study proposes an adaptive virtual inertia control system based on fuzzy logic, which offers notable advancements in frequency dynamics. The proposed controller dynamically adjusts the virtual inertia constant in real-time by leveraging inputs such as frequency and the rate of change of frequency (RoCoF). This adaptive approach overcomes the limitations of fixed inertia systems, ensuring improved frequency stability and superior transient performance during load disturbances. Simulation results validate the system's effectiveness, showing reduced frequency overshoots, minimized deviations, and faster recovery to nominal frequency compared to conventional fixed inertia methods. By rapidly damping oscillations and enhancing transient stability, the proposed system significantly outperforms traditional techniques. Moreover, the study reviews current virtual inertia strategies, control topologies, and explores future research directions for integrating advanced virtual inertia into modern grids. These findings demonstrate the robustness of fuzzy logic based adaptive inertia for stabilizing low-inertia microgrids with high RES penetration.