Different from the synchronization mechanism of synchronous generators, the non-synchronous generators must be synchronized with the grid through a controller. Generally, the virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control strategy is adopted for this purpose. In view of the current situation, where the control loops are not comprehensively considered in the research of the synchronization stability of the VSG, this paper considers multiple control loops, such as active frequency loops, virtual governors, power filters and current constraint control, to establish the mathematical model of the VSG and infinite system. On this basis, the correlation formula between power angle difference and control parameters is deduced. Adopting the phase plane method, the influence of different control loops and their parameters on the transient synchronization stability is analyzed. Finally, a setting principle of the frequency modulation coefficient of virtual governors is proposed, which not only meets the response speed of control systems, but also has good control performance.

Three synchronous machine models representing three precision levels (complete, reduced and static), implemented in a virtual synchronous generator (VSG)-based industrial inverter, are compared and discussed to propose a set of tests for a possible standardization of VSG-based inverters and to ensure their “grid-friendly” operation in the context of isolated microgrids. The models and their implementation in the microcontroller of an industrial inverter (with the local control) are discussed, including the usability of the implementation with large-scale developments constraints in mind. The comparison is conducted based on existing standards (for synchronous machines and diesel generators) in order to determine their needed evolution, to define the requirements for future grid-friendly inverter-based generators, notably implementing a VSG solution.