2026 Jane Soneira Converter Grid Stability

The increasing penetration of power electronic converters in industrial grids introduces stability challenges at frequencies well above the electromechanical range of traditional power systems. Commercial software tools typically perform eigenvalue-based stability analysis using root-mean-square (RMS) models that assume a quasi-stationary network, thereby neglecting electromagnetic dynamics of assets. This paper presents a case study of an industrial grid where the conventional RMS-based eigenvalue analysis predicts stable operation, while a detailed electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation reveals growing oscillations, indicating instability. To bridge this gap, we introduce an alternative modeling approach that formulates the network dynamics in the rotating dq reference frame, retaining the differential equations of electromagnetic dynamics. The resulting model enables eigenvalue analysis that correctly identifies the unstable modes, consistent with the EMT simulation results. Our findings highlight a fundamental limitation of RMS-based stability assessment for converter-dominated grids and demonstrate that dynamic impedance models in the dq frame provide a viable path toward accurate small-signal analysis encompassing high-frequency converter-network interactions.