A metaheuristic algorithm for regulating virtual inertia of a standalone microgrid incorporating electric vehicles

Modern electrical networks, particularly microgrids, have seen a sharp rise in acquiring non‐conventional sources. The inertia of the microgrid decreases drastically because RESs have been used in place of traditional synchronous generators. The reduced inertia negatively impacts the dynamics and performance of the microgrid with RESs, which decreases the microgrid's stability, especially in operation on an island. The primary purpose of this research study is to enhance the dynamic security of an island microgrid by merging an electric vehicle with a frequency control technique based on virtual inertia control. A Proportional Integral Derivative Filter Constant (PIDFN) controller optimally created using the Modified Differential Evolution (MDE) method served as the foundation for control in the virtual inertia control loop. The effectiveness of the MDE‐based PIDFN controller was examined considering the diverse operational scenarios are compared and contrasted with those of traditional methods Differential Evolution (DE) and Teaching Learning Based Optimization (TLBO)‐based PIDFN controllers. Real‐time wind and solar power statistics and random load fluctuations were incorporated to provide realistic simulation settings. The outcomes demonstrate that the MDE‐based PIDFN controller performs better in reference frequency tracking and reducing frequency disturbances than the other optimization strategies.