Inverterbased

Inverter-based refers to electrical equipment or generation that connects to an alternating current grid through power electronic inverters, typically converting direct current sources into AC and actively controlling voltage, frequency, and power flow. The term is commonly used for inverter-based resources (IBRs) such as photovoltaic solar arrays, battery energy storage systems, and some wind turbines that use full-converter generators. Inverters can operate in grid-following mode, aligning to the existing grid frequency and voltage before injecting power, or in grid-forming mode, establishing a stable voltage and frequency and enabling islanded or microgrid operation.

Key capabilities of inverter-based resources include fast dynamic response and the ability to deliver both active and reactive power. They can provide voltage support, frequency regulation, and, with appropriate controls, synthetic inertia and fast frequency response. These capabilities help integrate variable renewable generation and storage but require advanced control strategies and appropriate grid codes to function reliably at scale. Inverter output can be adjusted to help manage voltage levels and disturbances, but the nature of their protection and fault current contribution differs from conventional synchronous generators.

Grid integration of IBRs also presents challenges. Their variability and, historically, reduced rotating inertia influence grid stability and reserve needs. Protection schemes and fault-current contributions must be coordinated with inverters’ capabilities. Standards and regulations, such as IEEE 1547 and UL 1741 in the United States or EN 50549 in Europe, define interconnection and grid-support requirements, including ride-through, voltage and frequency services, and control modes.