Design and Experimental Validation of a Cluster-Based Virtual Power Plant with Centralized Management System in Compliance with IEC Standard

As power systems decentralize, Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) offer a promising approach to coordinate distributed energy resources (DERs) and enhance grid flexibility. However, real-world validation of VPP performance in Indonesia remains limited, especially regarding internationally aligned test standards. This study presents the design and experimental validation of a cluster-based VPP framework integrated with a centralized VPP Management System (VMS). Each cluster integrates solar photovoltaic (PV) system, battery energy storage system (BESS), and controllable load. A Local Control Unit (LCU) manages cluster operations, while the VMS coordinates power export–import dispatch, cluster-level aggregation, and grid compliance. The framework proposes a scalable VPP architecture and presents the first comprehensive experimental verification of key VPP performance indicators, including response time, adjustment rate, and accuracy, in the Indonesian context. Testing was conducted in alignment with the IEC TS 63189-1:2023 international standard. Results suggest real time responsiveness and indicate that, even at smaller scales, VPPs may contribute effectively to voltage control while exhibiting minimal influence on system frequency in interconnected grids. These findings confirm the capability of the proposed VPP framework to provide reliable real time control, ancillary services, and aggregated energy management. Its cluster-based architecture supports scalability for broader deployment in complex grid environments.