The requirement for distributed real-time control in the future grid using power converters
is being driven by rapid growth in distributed energy resources, microgrids and the need
for dynamic real-time balancing between generation and loads. The move from centralized
control to massively decentralized and distributed control raises further challenges,
both in terms of the converters and feasible control strategies, as well as the architecture
and infrastructure required to manage and operate such a system. This presentation will
discuss power converter topologies, control strategies and system architecture for managing
such a future grid and related loads. Key topics include hybrid transformers, solid
state transformers and universal converters for a variety of applications, and grid integration
strategies for managing a fleet of such devices to deliver value for the future and
present grid.
Dr. Deepak Divan is Professor, John E Pippin Chair, GRA Eminent Scholar and
Director of the Center for Distributed Energy at the Georgia Institute of Technology
in Atlanta, GA. His field of research is in the areas of power electronics, power
systems, smart grids and distributed control of power systems. He works closely
with utilities, industry and is actively involved in research, teaching,
entrepreneurship and starting new ventures. Dr. Divan is an elected Member of
the US National Academy of Engineering, member of the national academies
Board on Energy and Environmental Systems, a Fellow of the IEEE, past
President of the IEEE Power Electronics Society, and is a recipient of the IEEE
William E Newell Field Medal. He has 40 years of academic and industrial
experience, 65 issued and pending patents, and over 400 refereed publications. He has founded or seeded
several new ventures including Soft Switching Technologies, Innovolt, Varentec and Smart Wires, which together
have raised >$200M in venture funding.