Master's thesis: Inverter-Driven Oscillations in the Nordic power system: existing and future challenges

The Opportunity:

At Hitachi Energy, our purpose is advancing a sustainable energy future for all. As a Master Thesis Worker, you will be part of the R&D organization working in collaboration with Hitachi Energy and RISE. The increasing penetration of inverter-based resources is transforming the dynamic behavior of power systems and creating new challenges related to stability and oscillatory phenomena. This thesis project focuses on investigating Inverter-Driven Interactions (IDIs) in the Nordic power system and developing mitigation strategies to improve system stability under future inverter-rich operating conditions.

Your Responsibilities:

• Evaluate the dynamic behavior of a state-of-the-art Nordic power system test model under various operating and control scenarios, particularly inverter-rich conditions.
• Identify and design appropriate disturbances for assessing system dynamic performance and stability.
• Investigate the characteristics and properties of Inverter-Driven Interactions (IDIs) under changing operating conditions.
• Perform sensitivity studies to identify key parameters contributing to unwanted oscillations and stability issues.
• Analyze the influence of different operating points, contingencies, and control settings on system behavior.
• Develop, implement, and validate inverter-based control mitigation strategies to reduce or eliminate oscillatory interactions.
• Demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control solutions across a variety of system conditions.
• Utilize PowerFactory and Python-based automation tools to conduct simulations, sensitivity analyses, and contingency studies.
• Deliver the developed model, scripts, and user documentation, and present the outcomes to RISE and Hitachi Energy R&D before finalizing the Master Thesis.
• Live Hitachi Energy’s core values of safety and integrity by taking responsibility for your actions while caring for your colleagues and the business.

Your Background:

• You are currently pursuing an MSc degree at a university in Sweden in Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, Power Systems, Control Engineering, or a related field.
• Knowledge of power system analysis and stability.
• Understanding dynamic systems and control engineering principles.
• Knowledge of power electronics and inverter-based generation technologies.
• Basic experience with power system modelling and simulation tools. Programming experience, preferably in Python.
• Experience with DIgSILENT PowerFactory or similar simulation software is considered advantageous.
• You have strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a passion for power system research.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with supervisors and project stakeholders.
• Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.

The application must contain:

• A 1 to 2-page CV clearly describing the candidate’s qualifications relevant to the project.
• Full transcript of records from both BSc and MSc studies.
• All application documents must be submitted in English.

More About Us:

At Hitachi Energy, we offer a dynamic and supportive environment for your master thesis journey. If you're ready for an exciting new challenge and this opportunity aligns with your interests and background, we encourage you to apply soon—applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. For any questions, feel free to reach out to Recruiting Manager - Rasool Heydari (rasool.heydari@hitachienergy.com)