Barrier Function Control for the Interconnection of DC Electronic Loads to Utility Grid

Abstract

This paper proposes a nonlinear control law that facilitates the safe integration of DC electronic loads to the utility grid. Specifically, by employing suitable reciprocal barrier functions, it is rigorously proven that the closed-loop system guarantees constrained operation within a desired operating region, despite the influence of fast converter dynamics and fluctuating constant power load demand. This way, the proposed controller guarantees safety of the electronic components from surges in power demand and high transients. The theoretic results are validated in simulation scenarios, where the performance of the proposed controller is compared against the conventional saturated-PI controller. Contrary to the latter, the proposed method guarantees stable and safe operation, enhancing the system robustness.

arXiv commentpreprint for paper to appear in IEEE ISGT Europe conference 2026