Power electronics-interfaced energy resources continue to displace fossil fuel-driven synchronous generators in the rapidly evolving electric grid. To aid this transition, a large body of research has explored how to control power electronics as to emulate the dynamics of the synchronous generators they are replacing. However, the advanced functionalities of emerging power electronics, combined with state-of-the-art control and optimization algorithms, can enable completely new benefits to the electric grid that have not been possible with synchronous generators. This talk presents recent work on such power electronics control and optimization techniques that aim to go beyond the emulation of synchronous generators, and can significantly enhance the reliability, efficiency, and functionality of the grid. Additionally, we will present recent work on a hybrid analog/digital computing platform tailored for implementing these techniques in a low-cost and energy-efficient manner, providing a practical means for the widespread deployment of such algorithms that can potentially transform the electric grid.

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