Key technologies and prospects for power electronic devices in supporting power grid security and stable operation

Driven by the “Dual Carbon” strategy, the widespread adoption of power electronic devices in “source-network-load-storage” systems has become an important trend in the development of modern power systems. While power electronic devices enhance grid flexibility and renewable energy integration, they introduce critical challenges such as low inertia, weak damping, poor disturbance rejection, and wide-band oscillations. Considering these emerging characteristics of modern power systems, optimizing the control performance of power electronic devices and enhancing their grid-supporting capabilities have become pivotal for ensuring secure and stable system operation. This paper first examines the evolving grid paradigm, summarizing the distinctive features of power-electronics-dominated power systems and identifying the fundamental need for power electronic devices to transition from “passive following” to “active supporting” modes. Subsequently, the study investigates the “who support” question by analyzing the support potential of power electronic devices across spatial, temporal, and functional dimensions. Furthermore, addressing the “how to support” challenge, the paper explores methodologies for constructing active support systems through multi-faceted approaches including converter control strategies, capability quantification, and coordinated operation of multiple devices. Finally, the discussion extends to “how to better support” by examining high-performance power semiconductors, advanced converter controls, and grid security, while providing perspectives on future developments in active support technologies.