Within this strategic sector of electric energy, the Research Group in Electric Power Systems (GISEL) focuses its activity on three interrelated lines of research:

- Line 1: Integration of Renewable Energy into the Power System, FACTS and HVDC. 

The integration of renewable energy sources into the power system is studied in the context of converter-dominated grids, whose increasing presence poses new challenges for the electrical system. This line of research addresses the issues associated with low inertia and the need to ensure robust and stable system operation. The analysis focuses on the behavior of key technologies under complex conditions, with the aim of improving response capability and ensuring reliable performance. This is approached through various technological strategies, such as FACTS (Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems) and high-, medium-, and low-voltage direct current networks (HVDC, MVDC, and LVDC).

- Line 2: Integration of Distributed Resources and Smart Grid Planning. 

This line of research focuses on the development of new distributed electrical architectures, advanced control strategies, and energy planning approaches that integrate renewable technologies, storage systems, electric mobility, and energy vectors such as hydrogen. The overarching goal is to increase the efficiency, flexibility, and resilience of power grids, both in real-time operation and in medium- and long-term planning.

- Line 3: Power System Protection. 

This line of research focuses on the development of advanced methods for diagnosis, monitoring, and protection of electrical systems, aiming to improve their reliability. Two main approaches are addressed: the study of specific components controlled by power electronics—such as drives, storage systems, and modular converters—through techniques validated by simulation and experimentation in isolated environments; and the evaluation of these integrated solutions within power grids alongside other applications. The impact of high penetration of converter-based distributed resources (generation, storage, FACTS, demand management) on protection systems is also analyzed. Finally, the protection of direct current (DC) grids is studied, which is key for the large-scale integration of renewable energy. Specific solutions are proposed, such as algorithms and interruption devices applicable to different voltage levels (HVDC, MVDC, LVDC).

This is a well-established line of research, backed by nearly a decade of development. In the field of renewable energy integration, the following tasks are proposed:

• Development of generic models for inverter-based renewable generation systems, considering different control strategies.

• Modelling of operational proposals for virtual power plants to efficiently coordinate distributed energy resources in the provision of ancillary services to the power system.

• Analysis of the behavior of advanced grid-forming converters under renewable energy variability.

• Development and application of new FACTS device models to support the integration of renewable energy into distribution networks.

• Modelling of direct current systems for transmission and distribution (HVDC, MVDC, and LVDC). Development of small-signal models and analysis techniques to study the interaction between DC and AC networks.

This is a well-established research line, backed by nearly a decade of experience. The following tasks are to be developed:

• Development of models and interconnection topologies for hybrid microgrids integrating renewable generation, storage systems, fuel cells, and/or electrolyzers.

• Design and validation of operating strategies to maximize the overall efficiency of a microgrid.

• Evaluation of the role of hydrogen systems as flexibility resources in power system operation.

• Development of algorithms and models for the efficient integration of electric vehicles into smart grids, including smart and bidirectional charging strategies (V2G, V2H, V2B).

• Proposal of optimal charging methodologies for electric vehicles, aimed at supporting the grid and extending battery lifetime.

• Development of energy planning methodologies for power networks in scenarios with high penetration of distributed resources, storage, and electric mobility.

• Analysis of the impact of digitalization, advanced sensing, and artificial intelligence algorithms on the operation and planning of smart grids.

This is the group's longest-standing research line, in which several members have extensive experience and a solid professional background. New contemporary challenges are being incorporated as a result of the profound changes electric power systems are undergoing. Among others, the following tasks are proposed:

• Expansion of the real-time power systems simulation laboratory through the implementation of an LVDC microgrid.

• Development of new methods for diagnosing and monitoring electrical and/or mechanical faults in systems involving power electronics.

• Development of new diagnostic and protection strategies for smart grids with high penetration of power electronics.

• Analysis and validation of protection coordination in different microgrid topologies. Coordination of diagnostic methods to ensure adequate selectivity.

• Development of fault detection and location algorithms for DC grids, including different voltage levels: HVDC, MVDC, LVDC.