This work is concerned with the operation and control of distributed networks of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems. In conjunction with the main power system, UPS systems provide reliable power to highly critical loads, like life-support equipment, traffic control equipment, computers, telecommunication equipment and process plant control instrumentation. The continuing proliferation of critical loads places heavy demands on their associated UPS systems, especially in terms of reliability. At the present time, reliability is typically achieved by the redundant parallel operation of multiple UPS units feeding the same load. These units are closely located, and are dedicated to one load. However, it is highly beneficial to interconnect UPS units and loads onto a flexible network, with no constraints on location, in the manner of an interconnected power system. The benefits accrue in terms of enhanced reliability, flexible system layout and ease of future expansion. However, before such flexible networks of UPS systems can be practicable, there is a need to identify and address the issues concerning system configurations and truly decentralized control schemes, which do not depend critically on controller data communication. This thesis is an effort to consider these issues, and to propose appropriate solutions.
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