Journal of Power, Energy, and Control
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026)

Advanced Control Strategies for Frequency Stabilization of a Synchronous Generator in a Modern Grid

Yaw Amankrah Sam-Okyere (Norfolk State University, United States)
Emmanuel Osei-Kwame (Norfolk State University, United States)
Isaac Papa Kwesi Arkorful (Norfolk State University, United States)
Ebenezer Armah (Norfolk State University, United States)
Nutifafa Tsikata (University of Mines and Technology, Ghana)



Article Info

Publish Date
19 May 2026

Abstract

The stability and reliability of modern power systems are critically dependent on maintaining a nominal frequency. The increasing integration of non-synchronous renewable energy sources (RES) has led to a significant reduction in system inertia, making the grid more susceptible to rapid frequency excursions and a high Rate of Change of Frequency (RoCoF) following disturbances. This research investigates frequency stabilization of a synchronous generator connected to an infinite bus, modeled through the swing equation and linearized at the unstable operating point. A state-space representation of the system is derived, and its controllability and observability are verified to enable modern control design. Two approaches are implemented: full-state feedback (FSF) and observer-based output feedback using a Luenberger observer. Controller gains are designed via pole placement to achieve desired closed-loop dynamics, while observer poles are chosen to be faster to ensure rapid state estimation. Simulation results demonstrate that both controllers stabilize the otherwise unstable generator, with the observer-based feedback offering faster frequency recovery when only partial state measurements are available. A comparative analysis of rotor angle and frequency trajectories shows that FSF ensures robustness when full measurements are accessible. At the same time, the observer-based design provides a practical solution under realistic measurement limitations. The results confirm that advanced control strategies can effectively stabilize low-inertia power systems.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

PEC

Publisher

Subject

Control & Systems Engineering Electrical & Electronics Engineering Energy Engineering Mechanical Engineering

Description

Journal of Power, Energy, and Control (PEC) mainly focuses on power engineering, energy engineering, renewable energy, control systems in energy application, and various sustainable energy applications. PEC welcomes the submission of high quality original research papers, review papers, and case ...