Webinar | EPEC Group uses HIL to de-risk renewable project delivery

This webinar explored the utility of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing in reducing risks associated with renewable generator connections by validating control systems models before on-site commissioning. It highlighted how, in Australian renewable grid connections, plants are modeled in EMT (and RMS) power system platforms to ensure their performance aligns with the requirements of the National Electricity Rules. This modeling data was documented in a plant’s Generator Performance Standards (GPS), which the plant was required to adhere to during normal operation. The webinar discussed how, during project commissioning, a plant’s performance was tested against the GPS by running a series of tests and comparing results to the approved model. If the mismatch exceeded tolerance bands or if the plant exhibited undesirable behavior, the plant could be restricted from operating or allowed to operate only at a curtailed capacity, leading to typical lost revenue of $50,000 per day for large plants. It also addressed how compliance testing often revealed issues not captured in models, potentially causing significant delays. By using HIL testing as a delivery tool, these systems could be tested earlier, mitigating the risk of lost revenue and avoiding untested designs impacting the electricity grid. The recording covered several key topics, including typical control system issues faced by large renewable project connections, challenges associated with modeling versus real-world behavior, risks and impacts of delays, and the role of HIL in validating control systems and streamlining the connection process. It also explored typical HIL pre-commissioning setups for aggregated generator controls (AGCS) and featured a demonstration of test procedures, benchmarking, and real-time prototyping.