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Sungrow completes world’s first large-scale grid-forming extreme test
5/5/2026
News
Chinese PV inverter and energy storage supplier Sungrow has completed what it describes as the world’s first large scale, full condition extreme test of grid forming technology, aimed at assessing how renewable power systems perform under severe grid conditions.
The company said: ‘As global power systems rapidly transition toward high shares of renewable energy, grid stability is becoming a critical challenge. These tests align with grid codes and requirements across major global markets, including Europe, Australia and China, addressing growing challenges related to grid stability and high renewable penetration worldwide.’
The test programme covered 14 different scenarios over a total of 138 hours. It was independently observed and verified by testing and certification body TÜV Rheinland, with results meeting a range of international technical standards, according to the company.
The testing focused on grid-forming system behaviour under conditions associated with rising shares of renewable generation, which are increasing challenges related to system stability, fault response and recovery following disturbances.
The trials were conducted on a 30 MW grid simulation platform, designed to replicate full scale and extreme grid conditions. The facility includes equipment capable of varying short circuit capacity and carrying out real arc fault tests, enabling validation under physical conditions rather than relying solely on digital simulation.
Test scenarios included short circuit faults, frequency disturbances and full blackouts. During short circuit testing, Sungrow said its grid forming system remained connected and continued supplying fault current, in contrast to typical grid-following behaviour. The company reported response times of around 10 milliseconds and continuous fault current contribution during the tests.
Frequency performance was also assessed, with tests designed to compare grid forming and grid following behaviour under sudden disturbances. Results showed that the system maintained operation and stabilised frequency within milliseconds, including under weak grid conditions.
Black start capability was tested by disconnecting all external power from the site to simulate a full blackout. According to Sungrow, its grid forming power conversion system established system voltage within 19 seconds and restored the facility without external electricity supply.
Additional tests included transitions between grid-connected and off-grid modes, load switching and oscillation damping.
The test base features a 30 MW grid simulation platform
Photo: Sungrow
