This paper presents laboratory validation of a point-to-point DC interlink applied to AC network microgrid based on a real-world resiliency use-case from two community owned microgrids in Puerto Rico. The presented DC interlink employs two four-quadrant converters: a 40kW 3-phase AC/DC in one microgrid and DC/AC in a second microgrids, both linked by a 20FT DC cable. Experimental results from two laboratory-full-scale network microgrid connected through the proposed DC interlinks demonstrate that this approach allows seamless synchronization, precise voltage, frequency and active and reactive flow regulation. Additionally, DC interlinks eliminates the need of directly controlling individual microgrid assets, as power-flow can be managed through the power converters, resolving issues related to controlling microgrids with different ownership models. Experimental validation of this approach uses real-data from two solar-based microgrids in Puerto Rico. This paper highlights the advantages of point-to-point DC interlinks and provides experimental evidence demonstrating their effectiveness for networked microgrid applications.
