Stability Analysis of High-Frequency Interactions Between a Converter and HVDC Grid Resonances

This paper analyzes high-frequency interactions between a Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) grid resonances by studying their effect on the system stability. The recent appearance of converter-related instabilities due to high-frequency oscillations at the converter's ac side raises concerns about whether similar interactions can also take place at its dc side. To determine the risks imposed by such interactions within an HVDC grid, this paper assesses the impact of the MMC internal dynamics and dc system resonances on the stability using an analytical impedance-based method. The effect of fault current-limiting inductors, grid topology changes and transmission line length is investigated, indicating that these parameters considerably influence the electromagnetic characteristics of the HVDC grid and consequently the system stability. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis of the MMC internal controller dynamics on the converter's non-passivity, causing the instability, is performed.