Grid Forming and Grid Following DER Interaction Using Droop Control and Grid Support Functions

Models
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Overview

A mixed-DER microgrid with GFM and GFL inverters demonstrating coordinated operation, secondary control, and grid support functions.

This example explores the interaction between grid-forming and grid-following DERs in a shared islanded network. It is a strong community seed model because it bridges two topics that users care about: modern microgrid control and practical grid support behavior.

The model is well suited to application-driven discussions around mixed-DER systems, IEEE 1547-aligned support functions, voltage and frequency restoration, and coordination between assets with different control roles.

Key Features

  • Mixed GFM and GFL architecture in one microgrid
  • Secondary control for restoring voltage and frequency
  • Supports grid support function discussions such as Frequency-Watt and Volt-Var behavior
  • Useful for standards and interoperability conversations

Getting Started

  1. Open the model in the Renewable Energy category
  2. Run the default test sequence
  3. Observe how GFM units establish the grid while GFL assets respond to system conditions
  4. Use the model to discuss coordination strategy and asset prioritization

Model Specifications

Parameter Value
Product HYPERSIM
Software version HYPERSIM 2025.4+
Model file GFM_GFL_DER_Interaction.zip

Detailed specifications (time step, hardware, dependencies, license, known limitations, compatible hardware) to be confirmed.

Downloads

2

In mixed-DER systems, how do you decide which assets should be grid-forming and which should remain grid-following?

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@Parija I use this example to determine the ratio between grid forming and grid following. If the number of grid following is too high, the grid will be unstable.