Small-Signal Methods for AC Distributed Power Systems–A Review

AC distributed power systems (DPS) can be found in several new and emerging applications. Similar to dc distributed power systems, an ac DPS relies on power electronics and control to realize its functions and achieve the required performance. System stability and power quality are important issues in both types of systems due to the complex system behavior resulted from active control at both the source and the load side. Traditional small-signal analysis methods cannot be directly applied to an ac DPS because of the periodically time-varying system operation trajectory. Possible solutions to this problem include transformation into a rotating (dq) reference frame, modeling using dynamic phasors, reduced-order modeling, and harmonic linearization. This paper reviews these small-signal methods and discusses their utilities as well as limitations. Compatibility of each type of models with state-space and impedance-based system analysis approaches will also be discussed. Problems related to the linearization of phasor-based models and their use in impedance-based system analysis are highlighted in particular.