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Control of Power-Electronics-Dominated Power Systems
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:42
Abstract
Covers AC power-system fundamentals, power converters, and control of grid-following and grid-forming voltage source converters, with emphasis on stability in low-inertia systems. Includes dynamic ancillary services, virtual power plants, impedance-based analysis, and data-driven control methods.
Objective
The course’s learning objectives are to 1) Differentiate the dynamic behavior of conventional power systems from power electronics–dominated power systems. 2) Explain and analyze the interactions between power systems, power electronics, and automatic control theory. 3) Design device-level control schemes that ensure stability and robust performance of converter-based units. 4) Develop and evaluate system-level control strategies for stability and performance in interconnected multi-converter systems. 5) Identify and apply data-driven control methods for monitoring, control, and optimization of power electronics–dominated power systems.
Content
This course explores the fundamentals and emerging challenges of modern power systems increasingly dominated by power electronics, covering key concepts from AC-system modeling and converter control to advanced grid-following and grid-forming control strategies. Grid-following converters operate as controlled current sources that synchronize to an existing grid via phase-locked loops, and therefore depend on an externally established voltage and frequency. In contrast, grid-forming converters act as controlled voltage sources that can establish and regulate grid voltage and frequency autonomously, enabling stable operation even in weak or islanded systems. The course emphasizes stability analysis, small- and large-signal dynamics, and robust control design, and introduces data-driven and optimization-based methods for integrating renewable energy sources, supporting system resilience, and ensuring reliable operation in low-inertia, converter-rich power grids.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Control of Power-Electronics-Dominated Power Systems | No time listed | 4 h weekly |
Offered In
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Track: Electronics and Photonics (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Electronics and Photonics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
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Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Electronics and Photonics", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. Semester / Research Projects are not allowed in this category. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
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Electives (These courses are particularly recommended, other ETH-courses from the field of Energy Science and Technology at large may be chosen in accordance with your tutor.)
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