Abstract
This paper describes the design of a Power System Stabilizer synthesized by a static Artificial Neural Network. The patterns used to train the neural network are sets of controller parameters, previously calculated for several system operation points using a pole-shifting method. This neural network stabilizer then operates, in a gain-scheduling scheme, in accordance with the values of active and reactive powers furnished by the generator to the power system, but with soft transition variations of the controller parameters. The trained neural network presents, as its main characteristic, almost uniform values for all the stabilizer parameters when the system synchronous machine is generating reactive power, but these same parameters suffer great variations when the machine is absorbing reactive power. Simulation tests presented show very good performance for the proposed Neural PSS, when compared with a fixed-parameter stabilizer, corroborating the main characteristic of the proposed stabilizer. (C) 2005 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Abstract
The main objective of this paper is to present the development of microsource modelling and the definition of control strategies to be adopted to evaluate the feasibility of operation of a microgrid when it becomes isolated. Normally, the microgrid operates in interconnected mode with the MV network, however scheduled or forced isolation can take place. In such conditions, the microgrid must have the ability to operate stably and autonomously. An evaluation of the need of storage devices and load-shedding strategies is included in the paper.

Abstract
Portugal is committed towards the EU to an ambitious target of attaining 39% of renewable energy production by 2010, as defined in the RES Directive. The new big hydroelectric investments, together with the mini-hydro power stations that are expected to be ready until 2010 will not be able to increase largely this share of needed renewable energy. The missing renewable energy should be produced exploiting wind energy, meaning that by 2010 a wind power capacity of more than 4.000 MW should to be in operation. At the same time Spain is also increasing wind power integration, such that by 2010 more than 13.000 MW are expected to be installed. The Spanish and the Portuguese electric power systems are facing at the same the challenge of a regional electricity market - the Iberian Electricity Market. This requires that wind power integration must be tackled having in mind technical and commercial concerns.

Abstract
Restructuring of power markets has helped in the penetration of Distributed Generation (DG) in the electricity networks. Microgrids are Low Voltage distribution networks comprising various distributed generators (DG), storage devices and controllable loads that can operate interconnected or isolated from the main distribution grid, as a controlled entity. This paper describes the main functions of the Microgrid Central Controller required for the optimization of Microgrid operation its interconnected operation. This is achieved by maximizing its value, i.e. optimizing production of the local DGs and power exchanges with the main distribution grid.

Abstract
Under normal operating conditions, a MicroGrid (MG) is interconnected with the Medium Voltage (MV) network. However, planned or unplanned events like maintenance or faults in the MV network, respectively, may lead to MG islanding. In order to deal with islanded operation and even black start following a general blackout, an emergency operation mode must be envisaged. Two possible control strategies were investigated and are described in this paper in order to operate a MG under emergency mode. A sequence of actions for a well succeeded black start procedure, involving microgeneration units, has also been identified contributing for an increase in distribution network reliability.

Abstract
This paper deals with the problem of large wind power integration and its potential impact on systems small signal stability. Factors like grid configuration, load and wind power integration are considered. An automatic algorithm is used to search the space formed by such parameters and generate a representative set of possible operation conditions. The oscillation modes are then calculated for each operation point. Some of these points of operation are subjected to a deeper analysis and the movement of oscillation modes on the complex plane is evaluated. Finally, non-linear time domain simulations are presented.