IEEE - 1052 - IEEE Guide For Specification of Transmission Static Shynchronous Converter

2019-11-26; Pandey, Ankit; SIEMENS, RC-IN GP EPC TS OPS EN
IEEE Guide for Specification of

Transmission Static Synchronous
Compensator (STATCOM) Systems
IEEE Power and Energy Society
Sponsored by the
Substations Committee
IEEE IEEE Std 1052™-2018

3 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10016-5997
USA
Authorized licensed use limited to: Siemens AG CT IP IR. Downloaded on May 27,2019 at 09:51:35 UTC from IEEE Xplore. Restrictions apply.
IEEE Std 1052™-2018

Sponsor
Substations Committee
of the
IEEE Power and Energy Society
Approved 5 December 2018
IEEE-SA Standards Board
Abstract: Assisting users in specifying the functional requirements for transmission static
synchronous compensator (STATCOM) systems using forced commutated technology based on
voltage sourced converter topologies is the purpose of this guide. These systems may be hybrid,
and also incorporate thyristor and mechanically switched inductors and capacitors. Reactive power
compensation, voltage regulation and control, transient and dynamic stability, and control and
protection are the functions included. Accepted engineering practices for the application of STATCOM
systems are presented. Specifications, typical application requirements, engineering studies, main
component characteristics, system functions and features, factory testing, commissioning, and
operations are covered. Informative annexes that allow users to develop or modify specific clauses
to meet the requirements of a particular transmission system application are included.
Keywords: functional requirements, high voltage power transmission systems, IEEE 1052™,
power system compensation, reactive power supply, static synchronous compensator (STATCOM),
static var compensator (SVC), transient and dynamic stability, voltage regulation
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Participants
At the time this IEEE guide was completed, the Voltage Sourced Converters Working Group had the following
membership:
A. S. Mehraban, Chair
Geza Joos, Vice Chair
Hubert Bilodeau, Secretary
Julie Lacroix, Secretary Pro Tem
Ram Adapa Reza Iravani Jan Paramalingam

Septimus Boshoff George Karady Vajira Pathirana
Anders Bostrom Neil Kirby Mark Reynolds
Martin Cameron David Langner Hamid Sharifnia
John Chahwan Lauri Latipaa Anthony Siebert
Bertrand Depommier Jeffrey McElray Andrew Steffen
Marek Furyk Sapumal Mendis Dan Sullivan
Mikael Halonen Mark Michaluk Hezi Touaf
Mike Henderson Malcolm Minchin Rajiv Varma
Ki Cheong Ho Richard Muller Joe Warner
Christopher Horwill Shreyas Zingre
The following members of the individual balloting committee voted on this guide. Balloters may have voted
for approval, disapproval, or abstention.
Ali Al Awazi Christopher Horwill Nikunj Shah

Hubert Bilodeau Richard Jackson Devki Sharma
Septimus Boshoff Gerald Johnson Hyeong Sim
Jeffrey Brogdon Geza Joos Vinod Simha
Demetrio Bucaneg Jr. Yuri Khersonsky Jeremy Smith
Michael Champagne Jim Kulchisky Gary Smullin
Randy Clelland Julie Lacroix Andrew Steffen
Donald Dunn Chung-Yiu Lam Gary Stoedter
Gearold O. H. Eidhin A. S. Mehraban K. Stump
Kamal Garg Sapumal Mendis Michael Thompson
Jalal Gohari Thomas Mulcahy Matthew Vacha
Edwin Goodwin Michael Nadeau James Van De Ligt
Randall Groves Lorraine Padden John Vergis
Mikael Halonen Jan Paramalingam Joe Warner
Werner Hoelzl John Randolph Kenneth White
Bartien Sayogo
6
When the IEEE-SA Standards Board approved this guide on 5 December 2018, it had the following
membership:
Jean-Philippe Faure, Chair

Gary Hoffman, Vice Chair
John D. Kulick, Past Chair
Konstantinos Karachalios, Secretary
Ted Burse Xiaohui Liu Robby Robson

Guido R. Hiertz Kevin Lu Dorothy Stanley
Christel Hunter Daleep Mohla Mehmet Ulema
Joseph L. Koepfinger* Andrew Myles Phil Wennblom
Thomas Koshy Paul Nikolich Philip Winston
Hung Ling Ronald C. Petersen Howard Wolfman
Dong Liu Annette D. Reilly Jingyi Zhou
*Member Emeritus
7
Introduction
This introduction is not part of IEEE Std 1052™-2018, IEEE Guide for Specification of Transmission Static Synchronous
Compensator (STATCOM) Systems.
This document is a new guide, based on the revised version of IEEE Std 1031™-2011, Guide for the
Functional Specification of Transmission Static Var Compensators. The guide provides an example and
general information that may be considered when developing a technical specification for a transmission static
synchronous compensator (STATCOM) specification.
This guide is not a tutorial, and application of its contents in preparing a technical specification should be done
with sufficient technical knowledge and understanding. This guide may not include all topics necessary for
every STATCOM application and does not address any commercial conditions applicable to specific projects.
This guide was prepared by a task force of Working Group I5, Voltage Sourced Converters in Substations, of
the High Voltage Power Electronic Stations Subcommittee for the IEEE PES Substations Committee.
8
Contents
1. Overview�� 11
1.1 Scope�� 11
1.2 Purpose�� 11
1.3 Application�� 12
2. Normative references�� 12
3. Definitions, acronyms and abbreviations�� 13

3.1 Definitions�� 13
3.2 Acronyms and abbreviations�� 14
4. STATCOM system project description�� 16
5. Scope of supply and schedule�� 17

5.1 Scope of supply�� 17
5.2 Schedule�� 19
6. Site and environmental data�� 19
7. Power system characteristics�� 20
8. STATCOM system characteristics�� 21

8.1 STATCOM system rating�� 21
8.2 Control objectives�� 24
8.3 Harmonic performance�� 28
8.4 Telephone and radio interference�� 29
8.5 Audible noise�� 29
8.6 Loss evaluation�� 29
8.7 STATCOM system availability and reliability�� 31
9. Main components—required functions and features�� 32

9.1 General requirement�� 32
9.2 Switching devices [VSC (STATCOM) and thyristor valves (TSC/TSR)]�� 32
9.3 VSC (STATCOM) and thyristor valves (TSC/TSR) cooling system�� 34
9.4 Control equipment and operator interface�� 35
9.5 Monitoring and protection�� 36
9.6 Reactors and phase reactors�� 38
9.7 Capacitors and ac filters�� 39
9.8 Power transformers�� 39
9.9 Switchgear�� 39
9.10 Auxiliary power supplies�� 39
10. Spares�� 39
10.1 Spares strategy�� 39
10.2 Spare parts storage�� 40
10.3 Spare parts accounting�� 40
11. Engineering studies�� 41

11.1 Information submitted with bid�� 41
11.2 Pre-manufacturing engineering and design verification studies�� 41
11.3 Post-commissioning studies�� 43
9
12. Tests�� 43
12.1 Factory tests of switching devices�� 43
12.2 Factory tests of controls�� 44
12.3 Tests of other components�� 45
12.4 Field tests�� 45
13. Documentation�� 45
14. Training�� 45
15. Balance of plant�� 46

15.1 Buildings and structures�� 46
15.2 Fire protection�� 46
15.3 Site requirements and conditions�� 47
Annex A (informative) Bibliography�� 48
Annex B (informative) Notes for a functional specification�� 52
Annex C (informative) Method of calculating VSC losses�� 103
Annex D (informative) Geomagnetic induced current�� 104
Annex E (informative) Phase angle jump - occurrence and mitigation�� 107
Annex F (informative) Discussion on auxiliary power supply�� 109
10

1. Overview
1.1 Scope
This guide assists users in specifying the functional requirements for transmission static synchronous
compensator (STATCOM) systems using forced commutated technology based on voltage sourced
converter topologies. This guide covers specifications, applications, engineering studies, main component
characteristics, system functions and features, factory testing, commissioning, and operations of the
STATCOM systems. A number of sections in the guide can be used for active filters and for industrial or
distribution system applications. However, reactive power compensation, mitigation of load disturbances,
or phase unbalance compensation for industrial and distribution system applications are not included in this
guide. Commercial terms and conditions for the purchase of the STATCOM systems are also beyond the scope
of this document.
General terms and conditions forming the commercial part of a specification for a particular project are outside
the scope of this document.
1.2 Purpose
This guide presents technical information that may be used as the basis of functional specifications for
STATCOM systems for transmission systems. For transmission systems, functions covered include reactive
power compensation, voltage regulation and control, transient and dynamic stability, main components,
control and protection, and accepted engineering practices for the application of STATCOM systems
applications. This guide also includes informative appendices that allow users to develop or modify specific
clauses to meet a particular system application. The wording deliberately uses “should” rather than “shall”,
given that the document is a guide, not a standard specification. The user of this guide might wish to make this
adjustment when converting specific sections into a specification. The guide includes the following:
— Newer developments in STATCOM components, particularly control systems

— Information on latest practices for STATCOM applications
— An informative annex to allow users to modify or develop specific clauses to meet a particular system
application
11
IEEE Std 1052-2018

IEEE Guide for Specification of Transmission Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) Systems
1.3 Application
The guide assists the users in understanding the functional requirements for the specification and the
implementation of transmission STATCOM systems. This guide may be used as a general purpose resource. In
this case, not every part of this guide may be applicable and the user of this guide should evaluate how, and to
what extent, each clause applies to the development of a specific STATCOM system specification.
The user of this guide may also refer to IEEE Std 1267™ for additional information on the specification of
turnkey projects.1
2. Normative references

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document (i.e., they must
be understood and used, so each referenced document is cited in text and its relationship to this document is
explained). For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments or corrigenda) applies.
Accredited Standards Committee C2-1997, National Electrical Safety Code®.2,3
IEC 60815, Selection and dimensioning of high-voltage insulators intended for use in polluted conditions.4
IEC 61000-3-6, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)—Part 3-6: Limits—Assessment of emission limits for
the connection of distorting installations to MV, HV and EHV power systems.
IEC 61954, Static var compensators (SVC) - Testing of thyristor valves.
IEC 62927, Voltage sourced converter (VSC) valves for static synchronous compensator (STATCOM)—
Electrical testing.
IEEE Std 18™, IEEE Standard for Shunt Power Capacitors.5,6
IEEE Std 519™, IEEE Recommended Practices and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electric Power
Systems.
IEEE Std 1031™, Guide for the Functional Specification of Transmission Static Var Compensators.
IEEE Std 1267™, Guide for Development of Specification for Turnkey Substation Projects.
IEEE Std 1303™, Guide for Static Var Compensator Field Tests.
IEEE Std 1313.2™, IEEE Guide for the Application of Insulation Coordination.
IEEE Std C37.90.1™, IEEE Standard Surge Withstand Capability (SWC) Tests for Relays and Relay Systems
Associated with Electric Power Apparatus.
IEEE Std C57.123™, Guide for Transformer Loss Measurement.
IEEE/ANSI Std C63.16™, American National Standard Guide for Electrostatic Discharge Test Methodologies
and Acceptance Criteria for Electronic Equipment.
1
Information on references can be found in Clause 2.
2
The NESC is available from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (http://standards.ieee.org/).
3
National Electrical Safety Code® and NESC® are both registered trademarks and service marks of the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers, Inc.
4
IEC publications are available from the International Electrotechnical Commission (http://www.iec.ch) and the American National
Standards Institute (http://www.ansi.org/).
5
IEEE publications are available from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (http://standards.ieee.org/).
6
The IEEE standards or products referred to in Clause 2 are trademarks owned by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers,
Incorporated.
12
IEEE Std 1052-2018

3. Definitions, acronyms and abbreviations

3.1 Definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply. The IEEE Standards Dictionary
Online should be consulted for terms not defined in this clause.7
commercial operation: The acceptance, by the user, of the static synchronous compensator (STATCOM)
from the supplier.
contract start: The date a contract to supply a static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) becomes
effective, and the user has given notice to proceed.
control range: The total inductive plus capacitive range of reactive current or megavar variation of the static
synchronous compensator (STATCOM), at the point of connection.
Hybrid STATCOM: A combination of both STATCOM and thyristor switched devices whose outputs are
coordinated.
lagging operation: Inductive operation or reactive power absorption of the static synchronous compensator
(STATCOM), similar to a shunt reactor.
leading operation: Capacitive operation or reactive power generation of the static synchronous compensator
(STATCOM), similar to a shunt capacitor.
mechanically switched capacitor/mechanically switched capacitive damping network (MSC/MSCDN):

A shunt-connected circuit containing a mechanical power-switching device in series with a capacitor bank and
sometimes also a current limiting reactor (MSC). In typical MSCDN branches the reactor/auxiliary capacitor
is paralleled by a resistor.
mechanically switched reactor (MSR): A shunt-connected circuit containing a mechanical power switching
device in series with a reactor.
point of common coupling (PCC): The connection point between the STATCOM and the power system at
which performance requirements are defined.
point of connection (POC): For a STATCOM with a dedicated transformer, the high-voltage (HV) bus to
which the whole is connected. For a STATCOM connected to an existing transformer, or direct connected, the
busbar to which the STATCOM is connected.
reference voltage (Vref): The point on the voltage/current (V/I) characteristic where the static synchronous
compensator (STATCOM) is at zero output (i.e., where no reactive power is absorbed from, or supplied to, the
transmission system where the voltage is controlled).
response time: The duration from a step change in control signal input until the voltage changes by 90% of its
final change, before any overshoot.
settling time: The duration from a step change in control signal input until the STATCOM output settles to
within ±5% of the required control output.
slope: The ratio of the voltage change to the current change over a defined controlled range of the STATCOM,
normally the full (inductive plus capacitive) range at nominal voltage, expressed as a percentage.
7
IEEE Standards Dictionary Online is available at: http://dictionary.ieee.org
13
IEEE Std 1052-2018

STATCOM (static synchronous compensator): A static synchronous generator operated as a shunt-

connected compensator, whose capacitive or inductive output current can be controlled independently of the
ac system voltage.
STATCOM system: An SVS where the static var device includes a VSC.
STATCOM valve: Electrically and mechanically combined assembly comprised of forced commutated
devices (for example, IGBT) assembled in levels, complete with all connections, auxiliary components, and
mechanical structures, which can be connected in series with each phase of reactor of a STATCOM.
static var system (SVS): A combination of different static var devices and mechanically switched var devices
whose outputs are coordinated.
submodule: Part of a STATCOM valve comprising controllable switches and diodes connected in a half bridge
or full bridge arrangement, together with their immediate auxiliaries, and storage capacitor, if any, where each
controllable switch consists of one or more switched valve device(s) connected in series.
thyristor-switched capacitor (TSC): A shunt-connected capacitor (or capacitor arranged as a filter) in series
with a thyristor valve, which is used to switch the capacitor on or off. A current limiting reactor or a damping
network is connected in series with the capacitor and the thyristor valve.
thyristor-switched reactor (TSR): A shunt-connected reactor in series with a thyristor valve, which is used to
switch the reactor on or off.
voltage/current (V/I) characteristic: The relationship between the current of the STATCOM and the voltage
at its point of connection.
VSC (voltage sourced converter): A forced commutated device (for example, IGBT) based self commutated
converter that is capable of generating ac voltage from dc capacitor voltages.
NOTE—A number of terms defined in 3.1 are represented in Figure 1 and Figure 2.8
3.2 Acronyms and abbreviations
BIL basic insulation level

CT current transformer
EMI electromagnetic interference
EMC electromagnetic compatibility
ETT electrically triggered thyristors
FAT factory acceptance test
FACTS flexible ac transmission system
HV high-voltage
HVDC high-voltage direct current
IGBT insulated gate bipolar transistor
LTT light-triggered thyristor
8
Notes in text, tables, and figures of a standard are given for information only and do not contain requirements needed to implement this
standard.
14
IEEE Std 1052-2018

Figure 1—Explanation of STATCOM system nomenclature
LV low-voltage
LVRT low-voltage ride through
MSC mechanically switched capacitor
MSCDN mechanically switched capacitive damping network
MSR mechanically switched reactor
PCC point of common coupling
PLC power line carrier
POC point of connection
RI radio interference
rms root-mean-square
RTDS real time digital simulator
SIL switching impulse level
STATCOM static synchronous compensator
SVC static var compensator (thyristor-based)
SVS static var system
SWC surge withstand capability
TCR thyristor controlled reactor
15
IEEE Std 1052-2018

Figure 2—Example of POC, PCC, and Vref for different STATCOM system configurations
TIF telephone influence factor

TNA transient network analyzer
TSC thyristor-switched capacitor
TSR thyristor-switched reactor
TVI television interference
V/I voltage/current
VT voltage transformer
VSC voltage source converter
4. STATCOM system project description

The following text may be used as a project description for the technical specification of a STATCOM system:
This specification is for the design, manufacture of equipment, construction, installation, test, commission,
warranty, training, and placement into commercial operation of a STATCOM system at _______ substation
connected to the _______ busbar. The STATCOM system may consist of a power electronic based voltage
source converter (VSC) converter complemented with fixed or thyristor-switched capacitor (TSC) banks and
thyristor switched reactor (TSR), allowing asymmetrical operation in the leading and lagging Mvar region as
applicable to reach the dynamic range specified. See B.5.1 for further discussion on STATCOM configuration.
The purpose of the STATCOM system is to regulate the voltage of the _______ kV busbar. The nominal
ratings of the STATCOM system are _______Mvar leading at 1.0 p.u. voltage to _______ Mvar lagging at 1.0
p.u. voltage.
16
IEEE Std 1052-2018

A regional and local site location map is shown in Figure.___. A simplified system one line diagram showing
the sources, interconnected transmission lines, and other system components is attached in Figure ____. A
proposed one-line diagram of the _______ substation after installation of the STATCOM system is shown in
Figure ___. The area for the STATCOM system facility is shown in Figure ___. The points of physical and
electrical interconnection between the supplier-furnished STATCOM system and the user-furnished facilities
are shown in the following figures:
_______ (site location)
_______ (system one line diagram/substation electrical environment)
_______ (power circuit)
_______ (grounding)
_______ (station service)
_______ (control and protection)
and, for turnkey projects
_______ (fencing)
_______ (site sub-surface and geotechnical data)
_______ (other)
The design and layout of the STATCOM facility should provide for future expansion requirements as shown
in Figure ___.
See Annex B for additional discussion of the VSC specification.
5. Scope of supply and schedule

5.1 Scope of supply
The following text and table may be used to define the scope of supply of the supplier and the user in the
technical specification of a STATCOM system.
The equipment, materials, and services to be furnished by the supplier and the user are listed in Table 1. Scope
of supply of the supplier should include, but is not limited to, the items checked in the “Provided by supplier”
column.
Table 1—Scope of supply checklist

Item Provided by Provided by user Remarks
supplier
1 VSC or other devices including
controls and cooling equipment
2 Step down or coupling transformer
3 HV switchgear: circuit breaker,
disconnects, grounding switches
Table continues
17
IEEE Std 1052-2018

Table 1—Scope of supply checklist (continued)

Item Provided by Provided by user Remarks
supplier
4 LV switchgear (circuit breaker,
disconnects, grounding switches) and
cables if used for connection to LV bus
5 Measuring equipment
Voltage transformers (VTs)
Current transformers (CTs)
6 Surge arresters
7 Grounding transformers
8 Reactors
9 Capacitors
10 Harmonic filters
11 Station services dedicated to VSC
12 Yard control, protection, alarm,
and monitoring systems
13 Special maintenance equipment and tools
14 Training program for operation
and maintenance personnel
15 Spare parts
16 Testing and commissioning services
17 Documentation including
instruction manuals
18 Civil works for the STATCOM system,
including the switchyard, fencing,
drainage, access, and parking
19 VSC building, including air
conditioning and grounding
20 VSC foundations and structures to
mount busbars, including grounding
and ground mat connections
21 Fire detection and protection systems
(building and components)
22 Physical security systems
23 Detailed STATCOM system
simulation models
24 Engineering studies
25 Others
26 Site for the STATCOM system available ___ calendar
days after contract start
27 Source of water for construction
28 Source of temporary station _______ kV
service power for construction available ___ calendar
29 _______ sources of permanent station X _______ kV
service power for the STATCOM available ___calendar
30 Existing facilities and equipment X
31 Building permits
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5.2 Schedule
The user should specify the expected project schedule. The paragraphs that follow may be used.
Project completion (Testing and Commissioning) is ___ calendar days after contract start. The supplier’s
project schedule is due ___ calendar days after contract start and should include such details as dates for
commencement and completion of work on several controlling features of the project, dates for user-furnished
services, dates on which supplier-furnished drawings will be provided and approval given, and dates and
length of time of any required power outages.
Design review meetings should be held between the user and supplier to review and discuss progress of the
design and supply of the STATCOM. The first design review should be held within ___ calendar days after
contract start. Subsequent design reviews should be held according to agreed project schedule.
6. Site and environmental data

Site and environmental data should be provided by the user in the technical specification as they may have a
significant impact on the design of the STATCOM system. The text and Table 2 may be used.
The STATCOM system should be designed to meet all rating and performance requirements specified in this
document while operating in the site and environmental conditions described in Table 2.
Table 2—Site and environmental data

# Site characteristic Value Unit
1 Site elevation above sea level m
2 Maximum ambient dry-bulb temperature °C
3 Maximum ambient wet-bulb temperature °C
4 Minimum ambient air temperature °C
5 Maximum daily average ambient air temperature °C
6 Minimum daily average ambient air temperature °C
7 Ice loading conditions (thickness) mm
8 Maximum ground snow depth m
9 Maximum frost depth m
10 Maximum steady wind velocity m/s
11 Wind gust factor or maximum wind gust m/s
12 Seismic zone and withstand data
13 Isokeraunic level days/yr
14 Creepage distance (per IEEE Std 1313.2™) or dust mg/cm2 or
concentration (or pollution level per IEC 60815) pollution level
15 Salt concentration mg/cm2
16 Solar radiation level W/cm2
17 Ground resistivity Ω-m
18 Humidity %
19 Existing ambient noise dB(A)
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7. Power system characteristics

Power system characteristics may have an impact on the design and performance of a STATCOM system and
should be included in a technical specification. The text and Table 3 show an example for the specification of
power system characteristics.
The following ac power system characteristics apply at the point of connection. Normal STATCOM operation
is required within the parameter values and durations given in Table 3.
Table 3—Power system characteristics

# Power system characteristic Value Unit
1 Nominal ac system voltage, line-to-line kV
2 Maximum continuous ac system voltage, line-to-line kV
3 Minimum continuous ac system voltage, line-to-line kV
4 Maximum short-term ac system voltage, line-to-line See B.5.2.2 kV
5 Maximum duration of item 4 See B.5.2.2 s
6 Minimum short-term ac system voltage, line-to-line See B.5.2.2 kV
7 Maximum duration of item 6 See B.5.2.2 s
8 Continuous negative-sequence voltage component %
(used for performance calculation)
9 Continuous negative-sequence voltage component %
(used for rating calculation)
10 Continuous zero-sequence voltage component %
11 Nominal ac system frequency Hz
12 Maximum continuous ac system frequency Hz
13 Minimum continuous ac system frequency Hz
14 Maximum short-term ac system frequency Hz
15 Maximum duration of item 14 s
16 Maximum rate of change of frequency (df/dt) Hz/s
17 Minimum short-term ac system frequency Hz
18 Maximum duration of item 17 s
19 Basic insulation level (BIL) kV peak
20 Switching impulse level (SIL) kV peak
21 Power frequency withstand voltage kV
22 Maximum three-phase fault current See Annex E kA
-for performance requirements kA for ___s
-for rating of STATCOM [see item k) of 8.1] _____
-X/R cycles
-Clearing time - normal cycles
-Clearing time - backup s
-Auto-reclose °
-Phase angle change (maximum) if required
23 Existing three-phase fault current kA
24 Minimum three-phase fault current kA
-for performance requirements kA
-for safe operation
25 Maximum single-phase fault current kA
26 Existing single-phase fault current kA
27 Minimum single-phase fault current kA
Table continues
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Table 3—Power system characteristics (continued)

# Power system characteristic Value Unit
28 Harmonic impedance sectors for each harmonic number See Figure B.8
up to the 49th harmonic or system impedance data as in B.5.4.2
R-X values with frequency steps not larger than 1 Hz (for
performance and/or STATCOM system component rating)
29 Background harmonic voltage (or current) spectrum See B.5.4.3
(for STATCOM components rating)
30 Geomagnetic induced current (GIC) for transformer design (optional) See Annex D A
31 Power system phase rotation CCW or CW
8. STATCOM system characteristics

8.1 STATCOM system rating
The expected ratings of the STATCOM system should be included in the technical specification. The following
text and figures give guidance on how to specify the required ratings.
The output of a STATCOM system can be adjusted continuously over the range illustrated in Figure 3(b). The
following items define the ratings of the STATCOM system equipment. More detailed information on the
items that follow is added to Annex B.
a) The STATCOM system should regulate the _______ kV bus voltage to a reference voltage of _______
kV (1.0 per unit), continuously adjustable between _______ per unit and _______ per unit.
b) The nominal capacitive reactive power output of the STATCOM system should be _____Mvar at 1.0
p.u. ac bus voltage and nominal system frequency, and _____ °C ambient temperature. Refer to the
voltage/current (V/I) characteristic in Figure 3(b) at point A.
c) The nominal inductive reactive power output of the STATCOM system should be _____Mvar at
1.0 p.u. ac bus voltage and nominal system frequency, and _____ °C ambient temperature. Refer to the
V/I characteristic in Figure 3(b) at point B.
d) The slope of the characteristic should be adjustable in steps of not greater than_______% between
_______% and _______%, on a basis of _______ (A+B (optional G+B)) MVA [see Figure 3(b)].
e) The STATCOM system should continue to generate reactive power during a temporary undervoltage
down to the value given in Clause 7 (item 6 in Table 3) for the duration given in Clause 7 (item 7 in
Table 3) [point C optional C' on Figure 3(b)]; the STATCOM system may be tripped (or blocked) if the
undervoltage persists for more than _______ s.
f) The STATCOM system should continue to absorb reactive power during a temporary overvoltage
in a controlled manner up to the value given in Clause 7 (item 4 in Table 3) for the duration given in
Clause 7 (item 5 in Table 3) [point D on Figure 3(b)]; the STATCOM system may be tripped if the
overvoltage persists for more than _______s.
g) (Optional) The temporary capacitive reactive power output of the STATCOM system, associated with
the operation of the VSC, should be _______Mvar at _______ per unit ac bus voltage for _______
s [Figure 3(b), point G], following continuous operation at any operating point in the steady-state
operating region. (This temporary capacitive output is the additional capacitive output provided by the
STATCOM, as shown on Figure 3(a), point G, and is not achieved by the addition of extra capacitors.)
h) (Optional) Continued controllable conduction of the STATCOM system associated with the operation
of the VSC to absorb reactive power should be possible up to _______ per unit ac bus voltage for
_______ s [Figure 3(b), point B’], following continuous operation at any operating point in the steady-
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state operating region. (This temporary capacitive output is the additional inductive output provided
by the STATCOM, as shown on Figure 3(a), point B’, and is not achieved by the addition of extra
capacitors.)
i) The STATCOM system should be capable of repeating temporary operation as defined in any one of
item e), item f), item g), or item h) of 8.1 every _______ min.
j) The coupling transformer and all bus equipment, if used, such as filter branches, capacitor bank
branches (thyristor switched or fixed), whether at HV or low-voltage (LV), should be rated to
withstand the specified continuous and short-term operation, and to withstand or be protected against
voltage and current stresses that exceed these conditions.
k) All equipment in the STATCOM system should be capable of sustaining, without damage, any fault
limited by the maximum design short circuit level of the system and the VSC transformer impedance,
if a coupling transformer is used.
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A is defined by item b) of 8.1 giving the capacitive design point for continuous operation
B is defined by item c) of 8.1 giving the inductive design point for continuous operation
C, C' is defined by Clause 7 (item 6 and item 7 in Table 3)
D is defined by Clause 7 (item 4 and item 5 in Table 3). It is an extension of line ILrated-B
E is an extension of line ICrated-A at maximum reference voltage (K) and minimum slope
F is an extension of line ILrated-B at maximum reference voltage (K) and maximum slope
G is defined by item g) of 8.1 giving the capacitive design point for short time operation
H is an extension of line ICrated-A at minimum reference voltage (M) and maximum slope
Figure 3—Example of VI characteristic of a (a) STATCOM and a (b) STATCOM system

(figure continues on next page)
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J is an extension of line ILrated-B at minimum reference voltage (M) and minimum slope
K Maximum reference voltage
L Nominal reference voltage
M Minimum reference voltage
Figure 3—Example of VI characteristic of a (a) STATCOM and a (b) STATCOM system
8.2 Control objectives

8.2.1 STATCOM system functions and applications, with priority
The technical specification of a STATCOM system should include a description of the required control modes
and their priority. More information about the available control functions is available in B.1.2. An example is
given as follows.
The desired function(s) and the priority in which the STATCOM system should respond to them are:
a) Fixed reactive power mode (FQM)

b) Voltage control mode (VCM/manual control mode)
1) Control of the positive sequence component of the fundamental frequency voltage in steady state
and dynamic operation, with slope in the range of _______% to _______% at ______MVA base.
2) Control of phase voltages (based on positive and negative sequence voltage). (optional)
c) Supplementary control functions
1) Gain supervision
To control regulator gain in order to prevent oscillations and excessive overshoot in the
STATCOM response, a gain supervision function can be implemented. This function monitors
the STATCOM response following a system disturbance. If required, an order to reduce the
regulator gain based on frequency range, amplitude, and number of consecutive oscillations of
the response will be issued. Gain reduction should be indicated and provisions for reset should be
provided either automatically or by the operator.
2) Coordinated reactive power control of external devices (optional)
To optimize the use of dynamic vars versus steady state vars, control of externally connected
shunt capacitor or reactor banks can be implemented. Such banks can be connected either locally
to a HV bus also connected to the STATCOM unit (see Figure 4) or remotely several busses
removed (see Figure 5). The location of the banks to be controlled may call for different strategies
and interface signals. If applied simultaneously with the supplementary VSC current controller,
the two functions require careful coordination. External devices like mechanically switched
capacitor (MSC)/mechanically switched reactor (MSR) can be switched ON or OFF to position
the steady state operating point of the VSC so as to extend its dynamic range.
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Figure 4—Local bank control scheme
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

Figure 5—Remote bank control scheme
3) Supplementary VSC current controller (optional)

To optimize the use of dynamic vars versus steady state vars, a control function that slowly
reduces or offsets the STATCOM point of operation can be implemented. By deliberately
adjusting the voltage reference setting within a narrow window the STATCOM system output is
pushed toward either a specific point or toward a window to preserve dynamic range. This slow
operating function is meant to provide for slower controllers, such as transformer LTCs or
externally connected shunt bank standalone AVR systems to operate and meet the slower long
term voltage variations caused by daily or weekly load variations. Rapid changes in the system
voltage that call for dynamic compensation will have priority over this type of controller. Figure 6
shows an example of implementation of a VSC current controller.
Figure 6—Supplementary VSC current controller
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4) Power oscillation damping (optional)

To increase the damping of power system oscillations occurring in the power system close to the
STATCOM installation, a power oscillation damping (POD) function can be implemented in the
STATCOM control. Power or frequency are measured and used as input signals for a
supplementary control function that supply a modulated output, with gain and phase shift
optimized to the oscillation mode or modes of interest. These are usually in the range of 0.2 to 2.0
Hz. Figure 7 illustrates how POD function can be integrated in the STATCOM system controller.
Figure 7—STATCOM controller with POD
5) Gain optimization (optional)

To provide operation at optimal regulator gain, a fully automatic optimizing function can be
implemented. This function operates by inducing a small change in the STATCOM output. The
gain is adjusted based on the network response signal.
8.2.2 Response
The response time of a STATCOM system is often defined by its step response and can be specified as follows:
The step response defined in Figure 8 has the aim to define the speed of the control system (controller, system,
and measuring circuit). By specifying the response and settling time the performance of the control system
will be defined. In the case where the step is not only performed by linear control devices [thyristor controlled
reactor (TCR) or VSC] and a switched branch like a TSC is switched in during a step response, the result of
overshoot and settling time cannot be used to evaluate the control system performance. For linear control
devices the change of measured system voltage to small disturbance should reach 90% of the desired total
change within _____ms of the initiating a ____% step change of voltage reference. The maximum overshoot
should not exceed _____% of the total change, and the settling time should not exceed ____ ms, after which
the voltage should be within ±5% of the final value. This response characteristic within these limits must be
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

respected when the system three-phase fault MVA is between the minimum and the maximum value defined
in Clause 7. The response of the system voltage using the actual controller should be validated on a real
time simulator during the factory acceptance test (FAT). A Thevenin network equivalent is sufficient for this
purpose.
Figure 8—Definition of response and settling time
8.3 Harmonic performance

8.3.1 General information
The STATCOM system should be designed to reduce the effects of resonance between its shunt capacitor
banks, filter branches, and the ac system, and, hence, to limit the harmonic distortion imposed on the connected
transmission system.
The STATCOM system purchaser will also need to indicate whether the full planning level limit (taking
into account the distortion already existing) is available for the distortion due to the VSC, or only a part of
that planning level is available based on the size of the STATCOM system as a proportion of the total MVA
capability of the substation (refer to Chapter 9 of IEC 61000-3-6).
Refer to B.5.4 for additional information.
8.3.2 VSC filter design and performance
Filters may have to be used to meet harmonic distortion requirements.
Given the many available STATCOM system configurations, many harmonic filter designs can be used.
The choice of design implementation is the responsibility of the STATCOM system supplier. More detailed
description is available in B.5.4.
8.3.3 Filter component rating
The harmonic filter system should be rated to carry continuously the harmonic currents produced by the VSC
and, if relevant, the harmonics present in the form of background harmonic distortion of the system. Unless
otherwise specified, harmonic currents from the power system and those of the STATCOM system of the
same order should be added following the general summation law (refer to Chapter 7 of IEC 61000-3-6). All
harmonic currents of different order should be added quadratically (root sum of squares) or following the
guidance of IEC 62001-4 [B27].
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NOTE—The open circuit system calculation described in Chapter 2.2.4.2 of IEC 62001-4 [B27] is not applicable to
STATCOM systems.
More detailed description is also available in B.5.4.
8.4 Telephone and radio interference

8.4.1 Telephone interference (refer to IEEE Std 519™ for additional details)
Limits for telephone interference may be given, where applicable, as follows:
— The I × T product should be less than _______. The I × T product is defined by IEEE Std 519™ as
the inductive influence expressed in terms of the product of its root-mean-square (rms) magnitude
(I), in amperes, multiplied by its telephone influence factor (TIF). The weighting factors from the
“C-message” are established in IEEE Std 519.
— The kV × T product should be less than _______. The kV × T product is defined by IEEE Std 519 as
the inductive influence expressed in terms of the product of rms voltage magnitude (V), in kilovolts,
multiplied by its TIF. The weighting factors from the “C-message” are established in IEEE Std 519.
More information is available in B.5.5.1. The user should specify the impedance and the equivalent circuit or
model, which is necessary for the calculation.
8.4.2 Broadband interference
If required, broadband interference limits should be included in the technical specification. The user should
refer to local standards to determine the specific limits acceptable for their respective country.
More information is available in B.5.5.2.
8.5 Audible noise

The supplier should design and construct the STATCOM system to limit the audible noise interior and exterior
to the facilities. The technical specification should contain the applicable limits and the measurement locations,
as well as measurement procedures to be used if required. B.5.6 gives additional guidance.
8.6 Loss evaluation

8.6.1 General information
Power losses of electrical apparatus are becoming increasingly important due to the high cost of energy. The
STATCOM system purchaser should clearly state how cost of losses is considered in the whole STATCOM
system project. Some STATCOM system purchasers may consider STATCOM system losses only for
information; others will consider cost evaluated losses in the overall STATCOM system costs. The purchaser
should state whether the cost of losses is to be considered in the evaluation of the bid. The losses should be
stated for the POC.
The bidder should supply the estimated or warranted total losses (kW) calculated in accordance with the
equations summarized in B.5.7 and Annex C. It should be assumed that ambient temperature is _______ °C,
the busbar voltage is _______ per unit, and the slope setting is _______ %. The STATCOM system may not
operate at these conditions, but they provide a common base for evaluation.
For each operating point, losses are calculated for the parts of the STATCOM system in operation or connected,
whether conducting current or not. Parts can be defined to be any system’s subsystem of device that is required
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to be operational or in service, which will allow the STATCOM system to fulfill the specified requirements,
dynamic and transiently. When more than one combination of STATCOM system parts might operate at a
given output (so called overlap range of at least two switching states) and almost continuous operation at
the switching state with lower losses is possible, these lower losses should be taken into consideration. This,
however, depends on the control strategy minimizing the losses in the overlap range and has to be described
by the bidder and checked at the FAT. If such a control strategy is not used, both values should be given and
separately summated, with explanation, and the average taken forward to the summation.
Losses in switchgear, busbars, cables, clamps, connectors, etc., are excluded. Losses associated with harmonic
currents are also omitted from loss calculations for evaluation (though they should be considered to determine
ratings of cooling plant and the like). The losses are calculated including all redundant auxiliary supply
systems (ac and dc), and control and protection systems, but exclude dual devices on the cooling systems such
as redundant cooling pumps and redundant fans since they are not in operation. However, redundant valve
levels are to be included. As a general rule, all devices that are required to fulfil the operational requirements of
the STATCOM system, are to be included in the determination of the losses.
8.6.2 Switching devices losses
8.6.2.1 VSC losses
VSC converter losses are composed of losses in power electronic switches [insulated gate bipolar transistor
(IGBT) or other], made up of conduction and switching losses, and the losses in dc capacitors, resistors, and
inductors used within the converter system. See B.5.7.2 and Annex C for details.
8.6.2.2 Thyristor valves losses
Refer to B.5.7.3.
8.6.3 Transformer losses
The transformer losses are a function of the transformer resistance and the rms fundamental current in the
transformer and core and stray losses.
Transformer losses are normally measured on test at full load and no load. The no load losses should be stated
at nominal voltage and no load, and should be taken as being consumed at all times.
The full load losses should be used to calculate an equivalent resistance of the transformer. Losses of the
transformer at each STATCOM system operating point required in 8.6.8 should then be calculated using this
resistance and the predicted transformer current for that STATCOM system output.
More details can be found about transformer losses measurement in IEEE Std C57.123™.
8.6.4 Reactor losses (if used)
The reactor losses are calculated from the rms fundamental phase current I. For formulas see B.5.7.5.
The calculation in B.5.7.5 applies to VSC phase reactors, thyristor switched reactors (TSR), MSRs, TSC
tuning reactor (if used), and filter reactors (if used).
8.6.5 Capacitor bank losses [TSC, MSC(DN), and filters (if used)]
In the test report for each capacitor unit, as per IEEE Std 18™, the dissipation factor (tan delta) is given. An
average value for all capacitor units is used to calculate the capacitor bank losses. For formulas see B.5.7.6
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8.6.6 Resistor losses
Resistors are included in damped filter configurations [e.g., high pass (HP) filters, high frequency blocking
filters, mechanically switched capacitive damping network (MSCDN)]. The resistor losses are calculated
according to formulas shown in B.5.7.7.
8.6.7 Auxiliary system power
The power used by the auxiliary systems for pumps, fans, and building cooling and heating systems is deduced
for each specified condition of the ambient temperature and reactive power flow. Nominal auxiliary supply
voltage is assumed. Values for auxiliary power can be assumed from previous projects and have to be measured
after installation for comparison purposes.
8.6.8 Total loss evaluation
The losses for each equipment in operation that the end-user wants to include (8.6.2 through 8.6.7) are summed
for each load level from full capacitive to full inductive output and shown in a loss curve over its steady-state
operating range at a system voltage of 1.0 pu.
The losses in the different operating ranges should be averaged and evaluated by the operating time. Refer to
B.5.7.
The sum of the loss values should be added to the investment cost of the equipment to determine the total
evaluated cost (see Annex C).
A similar calculation may be done after the equipment FAT to determine the final loss costs. Auxiliary losses
can be measured and evaluated after commissioning. If the losses are higher than the losses stated in the
enquiry document, the difference may be calculated as a penalty and can be subtracted from the final cost.
8.7 STATCOM system availability and reliability

8.7.1 Definitions
The following definitions apply:
a) Forced outages are outages caused by faults in the STATCOM system equipment that result in loss of
part or all of the essential functions of the STATCOM system.
b) Scheduled outages are outages necessary for preventive maintenance to assure continued and reliable
operation of the STATCOM system. They may result in the temporary loss of part or all of the
STATCOM system.
c) Outage duration is the elapsed time in hours from the instant the STATCOM system is out of service to
the instant it is ready to be returned to service. The following will be included in outage duration:
1) The down time required to determine the cause of an outage or to determine which equipment or
units of equipment to repair or replace.
2) The time required by system operators to disconnect and ground equipment in preparation for
repair work, and to remove grounds and reconnect equipment after repairs are complete. Delays
caused by unavailability of qualified user personnel are not accumulated in the outage duration.
3) Partial outage. If partial STATCOM system output is available, the duration of equivalent outage
should be calculated as the product of the derated condition duration and the proportion of the
nominal output range that cannot be achieved during this period.
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d) Annual availability is the annual equivalent availability for forced outages, both total and partial, in
percent and is defined by Equation (1) with duration in hours:
 D 
1− ∑  ×100 (1)
 8760 
where
D is the duration of the equivalent event (forced outages) in hours
8.7.2 Required availability and reliability
Reliability performance is required of the STATCOM system, as follows:
a) The annual availability for forced outages for the STATCOM system should be at least _______%.
b) There should be less than _______ (number) forced outages of the STATCOM system per year.
c) The bidder should state the expected or guaranteed average number and duration of scheduled outages
per year.
The bidder should guarantee the quoted availability performance for ___ years from commercial
operation. The supplier will be notified of major outages. During the guarantee period, the user will
maintain records of the number and duration of forced and scheduled outages, hours of operation,
and any other relevant data, and should make those records available to the supplier upon request. If
the actual performance is different from the values stated in item a) and item b) of 8.7.2, the supplier
should provide corrections and modifications to meet the availability guarantees at no extra cost to the
user. The availability guarantee should then continue until the average over ___ consecutive years of
operation within the guaranteed values have been achieved.
d) Maintenance intervals should occur regularly for inspection and, where necessary, repair. The bidder
should suggest the maintenance interval suitable for its equipment and should describe any condition
monitoring offered.
9. Main components—required functions and features

9.1 General requirement
All materials that will become a part of the completed work should comply with applicable standards listed in
Clause 2.
9.2 Switching devices [VSC (STATCOM) and thyristor valves (TSC/TSR)]

9.2.1 Overall performance
The electronic switches should be designed with the aim to achieve operation according to the overall
performance requirements of the STATCOM system.
9.2.2 Access to power switching device submodules
The design of the VSC valves’ and thyristor valves’ support structures should permit access by the user for
visual inspection, routine maintenance, and component replacement.
9.2.3 Design robustness
The VSC and thyristor valves should be designed with individual devices and other components applied in a
conservative manner with regard to their basic design parameters, as follows:
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a) The switching devices should withstand maximum overvoltage and overcurrent stresses due to system
faults and switching.
b) The switching device’s design should include an appropriate allowance for unequal voltage
distribution across individual devices in the valve due to stray capacitor and component tolerances.
c) The switching devices should be designed to prevent or, alternatively, to withstand false firing events,
i.e., the firing of any valve at an incorrect time in the cycle or when not ordered. The bidder should
describe the details of prevention or withstand inherent in its design.
d) Each switching device should be able to operate within component ratings, generally with at least
one failed submodule or level. The number of possible failed submodules or levels should be selected
by the supplier, demonstrated to the user, and be consistent with the availability requirements of the
STATCOM system.
9.2.4 Maintenance
Switching submodule monitoring and maintenance requirements are as follows:
— A monitoring means to identify any VSC submodules or thyristors that have failed should be provided.
— The switching devices should be designed to allow easy replacement of failed submodules’ components
or thyristors. Other system components or filter branches should be capable of continued service while
a submodule component is being changed or during similar maintenance.
9.2.5 Switching devices protection
The bidder should state the methods of overvoltage protection of the submodules and the voltage levels at
which these protections operate, as follows:
— VSC submodules should be protected against overvoltages with appropriate strategies. Description of
the failure mode of the switching device and the strategies used following failure should be provided.
— TSR valves should be protected against overvoltages by a forced firing system (refer to
IEEE Std 1031™).
— TSC valves should not be fired under overvoltage conditions.
9.2.6 Testing
The bidder should submit a test program for the switching devices, including type tests and routine tests in the
factory.
9.2.7 Startup and energization
The STATCOM system should be designed to allow full and automated start-up with and without energization
of the voltage source internal capacitors. The bidder should describe the details of the energization sequence,
including the charging circuits for the VSC, auxiliary power requirements, and constraints for all switching
devices. The bidders should provide details on the impact on the system voltage during all possible energization
and charging conditions and, in particular, during the maximum and minimum system strengths (three-phase
fault current conditions). The information should provide timing sequences for both the pre-charging and
energization duration until the STATCOM is fully in service. The bidders should include an analysis of the
ability or constraints to start the STATCOM with no auxiliary ac power available from the network.
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9.2.8 Low-voltage and overvoltage ride through (LVRT and OVRT) of the STATCOM system
The STATCOM system should be designed to allow effective ride through of the STATCOM during short
durations of LV or HV conditions. The bidder should describe the details of the dynamic performance and
output of the STATCOM during different LV or HV conditions (both as a function of the voltage magnitude
and the duration of the abnormal voltage condition).
9.3 VSC (STATCOM) and thyristor valves (TSC/TSR) cooling system

9.3.1 Liquid cooling (if applicable)
If liquid cooling can be provided by the manufacturer, the user should specify the minimum requirements for
such a cooling system. The following requirements may be used:
a) A closed-loop recirculating system should provide full heat rejection capacity with redundancy for
pumps, heat exchangers, and fans, appropriate to the STATCOM system availability requirements.
The cooling system should be able to maintain full capacity at maximum ambient temperature and
maximum STATCOM reactive power output. The cooling system should be able to operate at the
lowest ambient temperature and zero output specified, and the bidder should describe how this
operation is done.
b) Replacement of certain cooling equipment (e.g., pumps, fans, cooler unit), if defective, should be
possible while the cooling system still operates.
c) A purifying loop to maintain liquid resistivity should be provided. The bidder should state the design
value of liquid resistivity and describe methods of detecting and responding to abnormal conditions.
d) The quantity of deionization material should be sufficient for a period longer than the specified
maintenance interval operation without replacement. Deionization materials should be replaceable
without cooling system shut down. Instructions for frequency of inspection and change should be
given. The bidder should describe the necessary maintenance actions and their frequency.
e) Maintenance of closed loop systems and make up for loss of liquid should not be required more than
once a year.
9.3.2 Air cooling (if applicable)
If an air cooling system can be provided by the manufacturer, the minimum requirements should be specified
by the user. The following may be used:
a) An air cooling system should provide full heat rejection with redundancy in blowers, filtering,
monitoring, and heat exchangers (if required). The cooling system should permit work on a defective
unit without shutting down the system.
b) The bidder should describe the air filtering system and details of monitoring of the status of blowers,
filters, and other components.
9.3.3 Cooling system protection
The cooling system should monitor its own operation and the condition of the cooling medium, as follows:
a) For liquid-cooled systems, the protection system should include, at a minimum, the following warning
alarms:
1) Depleted demineralizer (deionizing) cell
2) Low water resistivity
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3) Low coolant level

4) Primary pump stopped
5) Primary fan stopped
6) High coolant temperature
7) Failure of pump cycling scheme
b) For liquid-cooled systems, the protection system should include, at a minimum, the following
shutdown alarms, at different measured values than in item — of 9.2.4:
1) High temperature
2) Low coolant level
3) Both pumps stopped or blocked flow
c) For air-cooled systems, the protection system should include, at a minimum, the following warning
alarms:
1) Blower transfer
2) High exhaust air temperature
3) High differential pressure across the filter
4) Low air flow
d) For air-cooled systems, the protection system should include, at a minimum, the following shut-down
alarms:
1) Excessive exhaust air temperature
2) Loss of air flow
9.4 Control equipment and operator interface

9.4.1 Control equipment
The control systems should achieve the functional objectives given in 8.2. The accuracy of voltage should be
within ± _______% of the reference voltage. The accuracy of the gradient and linearity of the slope delivered
by the STATCOM system should be defined in relation to the current deviation from the theoretical slope
defined in 3.1. The maximum deviation should be less than ± __% of nominal current.
The valves and controls should be designed to avoid any “cross-talk” interference between antiparallel device
pairs.
When TSC switching is included, the bidder should detail the method of coordination between STATCOM and
TSC switching in and out in order to achieve smooth net output change. Depending on the control principle
(e.g., regulator loop with measured current feedback), the deadband may also be frequency-dependent.
The bidder should also include information about the type of control system (proprietary vs commercial;
procedure for software changes, if required; procedure for updates).
9.4.2 Operator interface
Minimum requirements for the operator interface may include the following:
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

a) The control interface should provide for local and remote control points. Only one control point should
be active at any one time and as determined by a master control point, but it should be possible to view
plant status, control settings, and other STATCOM system parameters at all control points.
b) The local control point should be near the STATCOM system control hardware. It should permit the
following control functions to be carried out at the local control point only, during commissioning and
maintenance:
1) Start and stop sequences
2) Change of reference voltage and slope settings
3) Alarm acceptance and, where appropriate, reset
c) Each control point should indicate, at a minimum:
1) Starting or stopping sequence in progress
2) Reference voltage and slope settings
3) The control point selected
4) Any other settings, such as supplementary stabilizing signals
5) STATCOM system “on” indication
6) STATCOM system “off” indication
7) Three-phase high-side line currents of the main transformer
8) Total reactive power generated or absorbed by the compensator
9) Primary voltage, single-phase
10) Secondary voltage, single-phase
11) STATCOM system branches in/out (where applicable)
12) Status and alarm information as as described in 9.5.1.1, 9.5.1.2, and 9.5.1.3
9.5 Monitoring and protection

9.5.1 Monitoring
9.5.1.1 General
The central control unit should monitor its own operation and the operations of the various STATCOM system
components. Two levels of protection should be provided: warning and shutdown. The first-level alarm
(warning) indicates that a problem exists, but that the equipment or its proper operation is not in immediate
danger. The second-level alarm (shutdown) initiates a reduction in output range or a shutdown of the
STATCOM system due to equipment problems that might cause damage if left uncorrected.
The user should include in the specification the requirements for interfacing with the STATCOM system’s
monitoring system, such as communication protocols, types of contacts required, and interconnection points.
9.5.1.2 First level alarms
The first-level alarms include the following, at a minimum:
a) Auxiliary power supply failure; back-up supply in use

b) Cooling system fan or pump failure; back-up pump or fan is available
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c) Cooling system problems (e.g., low water resistivity, primary pump stopped)
d) Capacitor failures can exist, but within an acceptable quantity
e) Loss of redundant devices
f) Branch availability
g) Loss of signal-measuring controlled busbar voltage, with the control continuing to maintain the last
STATCOM operating point, unless the regulated busbar voltage is also the source of synchronizing
voltage
9.5.1.3 Second level alarms
The second-level alarms include the following, at a minimum:
a) Loss of all control power

b) Loss of cooling system rated capabilities
c) Loss of source of synchronizing voltage
d) Excessive number of capacitor failures
e) Excessive overcurrent in a valve
f) Loss of devices in excess of redundancy margin
The central control unit should also have a built-in protective system for self-monitoring.
9.5.2 Protection
General principles apply as follows:
a) The protection relays and equipment should receive their primary input from CTs, VTs, etc., that are
either supplied as part of the STATCOM system equipment or, where indicated, provided by the user.
Redundant protective functions should be included and demonstrated, but common VTs and CTs are
acceptable.
b) All protection equipment and systems should be properly coordinated to prevent incorrect operations
of the protection equipment or systems during normal STATCOM system operation, including
anticipated abnormal conditions on the transmission system of the user, as specified. Fail-safe
principles should be applied throughout.
c) The STATCOM system protections should be coordinated with the protections of the rest of the system
where necessary.
d) Security monitors or dependability monitors should be clearly indicated in the system requirements.
9.5.3 Component protection
The following is a list of the possible required protection. Additional protection may be provided if deemed
necessary. Examples of additional protections are provided in B.6.5.1.
a) Main transformer
1) Overcurrent
2) Overtemperature (e.g., liquid, hotspot)
3) Differential
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4) Ground fault
5) Gas accumulation
6) Sudden pressure relay
b) Main phase or shunt reactors
1) Overcurrent
c) Capacitor banks (if applicable)
1) Overcurrent
2) Unbalance
3) Neutral unbalance
d) Bus
1) Overcurrent or current differential
2) Ground fault
e) Switching devices
1) Overcurrent
2) Overvoltage
3) High temperature
f) DC bus (if applicable)
1) overvoltage
g) Master control
1) Loss of control power
2) Loss of synchronization signal
During the design stage of the project, the manufacturer should provide detailed reports containing the
following information:
— Complete description of all STATCOM system protections: report describing how each protection
works, the different thresholds for alarm and trip, etc.
— Coordination and settings: report with demonstration of the coordination between protection settings
and equipment capability, as well as a justification for the choices of settings.
— Description of measuring devices: report describing the choice of the measuring transformers (ratios,
precision, etc.).
9.6 Reactors and phase reactors

Dry type, air-core reactors for outdoor use are typically used for currently produced STATCOM systems. Only
a few STATCOM system installations use iron-core air gapped reactors.
The magnetic field strength at any point where personnel have access during operation should not exceed
_______ mT.
All structural and fence metalwork, including foundations, should be designed to avoid, as far as possible,
metallic loops and parallel circuits in which induced currents can run.
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9.7 Capacitors and ac filters

Shunt capacitor banks should include capacitor units and protective fuses, suitably connected in series and
parallel groups, and an unbalance protection scheme in each capacitor bank to indicate possible capacitor
failure.
9.8 Power transformers

The transformer should be designed to carry 100% reactive current. Taps (on load or off load) are not required.
The winding insulation class should be consistent with system data (see Clause 7).
The transformer should be capable of carrying the harmonic currents and sustaining the voltage levels
associated with the STATCOM system under all normal operating conditions without loss of life. The
transformer should be capable of carrying a certain level of dc consistent with the STATCOM system design.
Tests should be made in accordance with the latest revision applicable of IEEE or IEC standards for power
transformers.
To help ensure minimum harmonic generation, the saturation flux density of the transformer should be higher
than the maximum flux density reached during normal operation, and the bidder should state the margin by
which it is exceeded. The bidder should also state the steel quality to be used and its reasoning for selecting
the margin. This maximum flux density is obtained at the highest secondary voltage during any reactive power
generation, highest reference voltage, minimum slope, and minimum continuous frequency.
9.9 Switchgear
Grounding equipment for maintenance and repair should be supplied with each separate circuit (e.g., VSC,
filter, TSC, and other equipment if used) that can be out of service while the remainder of the STATCOM
system continues in operation. Grounding equipment for the STATCOM system secondary bus system and for
the transformer should also be supplied.
Where it is required that a STATCOM system circuit be isolated, disconnect switches should be supplied.
Disconnect switches and links should be adequately sized to carry the maximum steady-state current that can
flow in them (square root of the sum of the squares of the fundamental and harmonic currents), and the fault
currents.
9.10 Auxiliary power supplies

The STATCOM system equipment should include all the power supplies necessary for its operation, including
step-down transformer, ac distribution boards, batteries, battery chargers, etc. The power supplies should be
sufficient to supply all pumps, fans, valves and valve controls, and building cooling and heating systems.
The supplier and the user should agree on the requirements for the auxiliary power supplies for the STATCOM,
considering STATCOM system requirements and existing auxiliary supply installations. Refer to Annex F for
further details.
10. Spares
10.1 Spares strategy
The basic supply of the STATCOM should include a full complement of essential spare parts and consumables,
which are to be furnished at the same time and as part of the STATCOM supply. It is the supplier’s responsibility,
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

based on the particular design for the STATCOM, to provide adequate spare parts to meet the reliability and
availability requirements specified.
A strategy for spare parts should be developed to demonstrate that the complement of spare parts will be
adequate to meet the reliability requirements specified, as follows:
a) The spares strategy should be based on a tabulation of all of the components in the STATCOM system,
down to the level of the lowest “replaceable component.” (In other words, all components suitable for
unit replacement at the first level of maintenance should be included in the tabulation, but individual
devices that would not be replaced except as part of a shop or bench repair of a replaceable component
should not be in this tabulation.)
b) Each component in the tabulation should be identified for its importance to the operation of the
STATCOM system, according to the following classification:
1) Category A: STATCOM system operation is not possible until this component has been repaired
or replaced (e.g., main step-down transformer, shunt reactor).
2) Category B: STATCOM system operation can continue (or resume) at reduced rating, but further
failures may lead to an outage (e.g., redundant submodule).
3) Category C: STATCOM system operation can continue on an emergency basis, but a critical
function has been lost or bypassed. Some risk of further complications or equipment damage
exists until the function is restored (e.g., one of two pumps out of service, protective relaying,
UPS, or cooling alarm sensors not in service).
4) Category D: Operation can continue without serious impairment (e.g., building services such as
lighting or heating).
c) The tabulation should include the failure rate or the expected replacement rate of the component over
a 10-year period.
d) The tabulation should include the manufacturer’s name and model number, suggested source, and
estimated delivery cycle.
Each device should either be:
— Included on an inventory list of all site spares. The inventory list should show the description, quantity,
and storage location of each spare, assuming that any time a spare is used, the item is reordered.
— Provided with a contingency plan to obtain a replacement on short notice if a spare is not being kept on
hand.
10.2 Spare parts storage

Where appropriate, storage arrangements for indoor and outdoor equipment should be seismically qualified.
10.3 Spare parts accounting

An inventory of the spare parts should be prepared at the time when the STATCOM is turned over to the user
and again at the end of the warranty period. Any shortages should be replenished by the supplier so that the
spare parts inventory is at its 100% level at the end of the warranty period.
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11. Engineering studies

11.1 Information submitted with bid
The bidder should perform engineering studies and submit reports with their proposal that support and
summarize the rating of the proposed STATCOM configuration(s). This should include, but is not limited to,
the following items:
a) Report on main equipment rating and design. The bidder should define such items as the STATCOM
V-I characteristics, design considerations for major equipment rating requirements, verify the
STATCOMs nominal output, and define the maximum fundamental ratings of filter components and
other equipment.
b) Report on preliminary analysis of harmonic performance. The bidder should identify assumptions and
methodology used for calculation of fundamental frequency and harmonic stresses and performance.
This should include preliminary verification of the effects of resonance between the STATCOM
system and the ac system, and verification that the filter configuration (if used in proposed STATCOM
system) limits the harmonic distortion and current distortion at the point of connection to less than
the limits identified in the specifications. The bidders should provide documentary evidence to
substantiate the harmonic generation methodology, against the control system algorithms.
c) Report on loss evaluation (refer to 8.6).
d) Report on audible noise (refer to 8.5).
e) Report on type and routine tests. The bidders should provide complete details of all type and routine
tests to be carried out. For previous type tests, a type test assessment report should be submitted (refer
to B.9.1 for more information on type test assessment). (Refer to 12.1 for information on factory tests
for converters).
f) Scope of digital simulator tests. The bidders should provide a description of the digital simulator setup,
as well as a list of tests to be performed using the digital simulator. (Refer to 12.2 for information on
factory tests of controls.)
11.2 Pre-manufacturing engineering and design verification studies

Pre-manufacturing engineering design and verification studies should be performed by the vendor within
the scope of supply after contract start. These studies are in addition to the actual STATCOM system design
simulator and field performance tests. The studies should demonstrate that the STATCOM system meets all
system and equipment specified performance criteria. Acceptance by the user does not absolve the supplier’s
overall responsibility for the proper functioning of the STATCOM system as specified. The bidder should list
all engineering studies.
Engineering studies should include, but not be limited to, the studies described in 11.2.1 through 11.2.5.
11.2.1 System dynamic performance studies
Dynamic performance studies should verify that the STATCOM system controls the system’s dynamic
performance during system disturbances, such as major faults and load rejection, and evaluate all functions
specified under various system conditions (i.e., heavy and light load conditions). Dynamic performance
studies include the following:
a) Studies to verify that the STATCOM provides adequate dynamic control to meet the system and
STATCOM system performance criteria for selected local and wide area disturbances
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b) Study of response time and of the STATCOM system’s behavior and contribution to the system’s
recovery from faults
c) Studies to verify the operation of any supplementary controls designed to damp power oscillations
following system disturbances, if these controls are to be included
d) Studies to evaluate the interaction of the STATCOM controls with the other nearby control systems,
including high-voltage direct current (HVDC) controls, generator controls, and controls of other
flexible ac transmission systems (FACTS) devices
11.2.2 Harmonic performance and component ratings studies
The studies should evaluate resultant maximum harmonic levels at the STATCOM system point of common
coupling (PCC), and determine maximum stresses on all STATCOM system components. The system
impedance should be represented as described in B.5.4. The study report should include the following:
a) Evaluation of specified system and operating conditions (refer to Clause 7) under all possible
STATCOM operating conditions.
b) Evaluation within maximum ranges of STATCOM system component tolerances (worst performance
values may not occur at detuning extremes).
c) Evaluation with maximum system voltage unbalance (refer to item 8 and item 9 in Table 3 of Clause 7).
d) Evaluation of worst case resonance condition between STATCOM system and system (refer to B.5.4).
e) Evaluation of possible resonant overvoltages.
f) Evaluation of GIC effects, if applicable.
g) Evaluation of the STATCOM system component thermal ratings based on specified operating
conditions.
h) Transformer saturation induced harmonics for component rating calculation only.
i) Evaluation of impact considering deadtime.
11.2.3 Electromagnetic transients, control performance, and overvoltage studies
Transient overvoltage studies should be performed with the actual controls modeled to verify that the
STATCOM system equipment is adequately protected against overvoltages and overcurrents (including
excessive valve recovery voltages) from power system transients resulting from switching, fault clearing
events, and credible STATCOM system misoperations. If applicable, verification is required that system
harmonics resulting from other system harmonic sources due to GIC or due to subsynchronous resonance
conditions do not affect the STATCOM controls under steady-state or transient conditions. Concerns that
should be evaluated include the following:
a) Study of start-up, including transformer energization, shutdown, switching coordination, and other
local area network switching events
b) Study of STATCOM system protection and protection coordination
c) Faults on the high-voltage (HV) and LV bus (single line-to-ground, phase-to-phase, and three-phase)
d) Faults across the VSC, capacitors, and other equipment if used (TSR, TSC)
e) The potential for false-firing of any valve under the most severe system conditions
f) Impact of GIC or subsynchronous resonance conditions on controls, if applicable
g) Control interaction
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11.2.4 Insulation coordination study
Overall insulation coordination should be verified by considering the results of 11.2.3 (dynamic overvoltages,
and fault and switching transients), including the impacts of lightning surges on the STATCOM equipment.
This study should determine and verify insulation levels, clearances, and arrester placement and ratings.
11.2.5 Other studies
In the technical specification, the user should include a list of all other studies that are required to be performed
by the supplier. Such studies may include the following:
— Grounding study
— Protection coordination
— PLC/radio interference
— Magnetic field strength
— Other studies as applicable
11.2.6 Software simulation models
The vendor should provide the following software simulation model(s) to adequately represent and model the
proposed STATCOM system in the respective software:
a) Stability model. The vendor should provide a detailed STATCOM system dynamics model for use in
(owner specified software) powerflow and stability simulation software. The model detail should be
appropriate and complete for positive-sequence power system simulation and analysis that is typically
performed with powerflow and transient stability programs. All appropriate control features for such
analysis will be modeled, and necessary documentation on the theory and use of model should be
provided. Stability model should be non-proprietary and freely available for distribution.
b) Transients model (as required by the owner). The vendor should provide a detailed STATCOM
transients model for use in [Owner specified software] transients simulation software. The model
detail should be appropriate and complete for transient response calculation of the STATCOM system.
All appropriate control features for such analysis will be modeled, and necessary documentation on
the theory and use of model should be provided.
Owner to list any additional models, as required.
More detailed information is included in B.8.
11.3 Post-commissioning studies

Refer to 8.6. A similar loss report as submitted with the bid may be revised to include the as built losses.
12. Tests
12.1 Factory tests of switching devices
12.1.1 Factory tests of VSC
VSC submodules should undergo type and production tests in accordance with IEC 62927. Type tests evidence
in lieu may be offered.
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

The bidder should provide full details of type and production (routine) tests offered in respect to the project.
In the event that previous type tests have been conducted, the bidders can submit a type test assessment report,
providing sufficient details to validate the relevancy of the previous tests for the project design offered. The
type and routine tests offered must cover the complete design of the STATCOM VSC with specific reference to
the following key design characteristics:
a) Maximum and minimum voltage capability, during both steady state and transient, short term
conditions such as voltage surges, switching surges, and LV conditions.
b) Maximum and minimum current values, with specific reference to the thermal strengths of the power
electronic components, during both steady state and transient, short term conditions such as voltage
surges, switching surges, and LV conditions.
c) Short circuit capability, with specific reference to the ability of the complete VSC and its associated
components to withstand, without damage, internal equipment failures and short circuits based on the
range of short circuit levels provided.
d) Insulation coordination tests and capabilities, based on standard practices for similar devices.
e) Any other network condition that could impact the basic design of the VSC such as changes in
frequency, phase shift, etc.
12.1.2 Factory tests of thyristor valves
Thyristor valves should undergo type and production tests in accordance with IEC 61954. Type tests evidence
in lieu may be offered.
12.2 Factory tests of controls

The integrated nature of the performance of the STATCOM in an electrical grid requires the following tests:
a) The vendor should perform factory simulator system tests to demonstrate the proper operation of
the control system. The control system should be connected to a digital simulator with adequate
representation of the electrical network for various conditions. The STATCOM system controller needs
to be representative of control functions, including basic controllers but inclusive of supplementary
controls, firing controls, and protective functions integrated into the controllers.
b) The simulator should provide an accurate network representation including network harmonic
behavior, as well as synchronous condensers, power stations, generators (with AVRs), and pump
storage schemes, existing HVDC, SVCs and STATCOMs, future SVCs and STATCOMs, FSC (fixed
series capacitors), and shunt reactors/capacitors/filters. The bidders and vendor should provide
information on the simulator studies to the client prior to the tests being undertaken.
STATCOM system control function type tests on a simulator should include the following:
— Verification of each control function.

— Verification of control linearity.
— Verification of control redundancy.
— Verification of the monitoring system.
— Verification of the protection system with reference to integrated protective functions included in the
controllers and firing controllers.
— Verification of overall system performance for minor and major system disturbances.
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— Verification of processor loading of all digital controllers.

— Verification of STATCOM system parallel operation with other controls in the system and control
stability.
— Verification of control equipment performance for auxiliary power supply voltage (ac and dc) and
frequency variations (ac).
— Climatic test, i.e., verification of control equipment performance for a specified range of ambient
temperatures and humidity. If climatic test certificates are available for the conditions specified, no
further tests are needed.
— Interference tests, i.e., the controls should be tested to operate in the environment of ac substations and
suitable surge withstand capability (SWC). Tests should be carried out, or proof of previous testing
provided, in accordance with IEEE Std C37.90.1™ (covering fast transient burst and a damping
oscillatory wave) and IEEE/ANSI Std C63.16™ (electrostatic discharge tests).
Routine production tests of all control functions, and separately of all protection functions, should be made to
demonstrate manufacturing quality.
12.3 Tests of other components

All other STATCOM components should be tested according the relevant equipment standards. Refer to B.9.1.
12.4 Field tests

Field tests should be carried out in accordance with IEEE Std 1303™.
13. Documentation
User should specify the documentation required. Examples are given in B.10.
14. Training
The supplier should be responsible for providing a training course, at the user’s specified location, which
will cover the information listed in this clause. The training course can assume that user’s personnel are well-
acquainted with substation equipment, including control protection and communications, but not versed in
power electronics.
Trainers should be fluent in English or _________ (primary language of user) and with in-depth knowledge of
the STATCOM system.
The training course should cover the following for operations personnel:
a) Description of the system objective and function of the STATCOMs, including specified performance
b) Valves
c) Master control and operator interface, access, etc.
d) Adjustable settings and reasons for their selection
e) Simulator testing of controls
f) Protection principles
g) Operations manuals (see Clause 13)
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The training course should cover the following for maintenance personnel:
— Description of the system objective and function of the STATCOMs, including specified performance
— Valves
— Valve testing
— Master control and operator interface, access, etc.
— Valve access, and test equipment and procedure
— Valve component replacement procedure
— Master controls operator interface test and replacement procedures
— Valve base electronics test and replacement procedures
— Protection principles and tests
— Cooling equipment and its maintenance
— Cooling controls and their maintenance
— Other specialist equipment (e.g., zero-flux CTs, PTs, and reactors)
— Operation and maintenance manuals (see Clause 13)
The manuals should be available as texts for each course.
15. Balance of plant

15.1 Buildings and structures
The building should be of a type and design selected by the supplier to meet the functional requirements of the
STATCOM and of the user, as follows:
a) The building should be arranged to house the switching devices, STATCOM system controls, and
other indoor equipment including spare parts. It should take into account the environmental needs of
this equipment and the need to gain access to the equipment for operation and maintenance.
b) The building services should include heating, lighting, ventilation, and air conditioning, as appropriate,
for occupied areas or as required to meet the requirements of the installed equipment.
c) The building design should follow all applicable local codes and ordinances (e.g., all building access
should be at grade or stairs with handrails provided).
d) The STATCOM system equipment structures should be designed to meet the requirements of the
STATCOM system apparatus [including wind and ice loading, fault-current forces, grounding,
lightning protection, and seismic (if applicable)]; and designed in accordance with the equipment
supplier’s recommendations and nationally recognized standards, such as the National Electrical
Safety Code® (NESC®) (Accredited Standards Committee C2–1997).
e) Appropriate safety signage should be provided by the supplier.
15.2 Fire protection

The building (and especially the power converter hall and control room) should be equipped with a fire
detection system. The fire detection system should be designed as follows:
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a) The failure of any single fire or smoke detector should produce a warning or trouble alarm, but should
not either cause a false “fire detected” alarm or disable the overall fire detection system.
b) The detection of an actual fire should cause the STATCOM to be shut down and be isolated from all
sources of electrical energy.
c) Adequate safety equipment (including alarm communication panels, breathing equipment, and
evacuation equipment) should be provided in accordance with local regulations [e.g., Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)].
15.3 Site requirements and conditions

15.3.1 Construction surveys
Prior to beginning any phase of survey work, the supplier should submit to the user a proposed plan to
demonstrate that the lines and grades established by the supplier will meet the requirements specified.
15.3.2 Site conditions
The user should provide the site for permanent installation and rights of way for access. The supplier should be
permitted to use such land for construction purposes.
Other items to consider include the following:
a) Protection of existing installations

b) Geological investigations
c) Electric power for construction purposes
d) Water for construction purposes
15.3.3 Safety and health
The supplier should have a safety and health program, and take all reasonable precautions to protect the safety
and health of employees and members of the public and to prevent damage to public and private property.
The safety and health program should be submitted to the user for approval at least ___ days prior to start
of construction operations. The program should consider safety meetings, accident records and reporting,
personal protective equipment, excavation, structure erection, equipment, environmental quality protection,
and safety issues related to substation and transmission line clearances, hot-line orders, and special work
permits. The supplier may also need special training from the user to work in the user's facility. Time (and cost
if not by user) for training should be provided by the supplier.
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Annex A
(informative)
Bibliography
Bibliographical references are resources that provide additional or helpful material but do not need to be
understood or used to implement this standard. Reference to these resources is made for informational use
only.
[B1] Al-Mubarak, A. H., B. Thorvaldsson, M. Halonen, and M. Z. Al-Kadhem, “Hybrid and Classic SVC
technology for improved efficiency and reliability in Saudi transmission grid”, 2014 IEEE PES T&D
Conference and Exposition, Chicago, IL, 2014, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/TDC.2014.6863549.
[B2] Billinton, R. and R. N. Allan, Reliability Evaluation of Engineering Systems: Concepts and Techniques.
New York: Plenum Press, 1983, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-7728-7.
[B3] Bordignon, P., H. Zhang, W. Shi, N. Serbia, and A. Coffetti, “HV submodule technology based on press
pack IGBT for largest scale VSC-HVDC application”, 12th IET International Conference on AC and DC
Power Transmission (ACDC 2016), Beijing, China, 2016, http://dx.doi.org/10.1049/cp.2016.0397.
[B4] Erimez, I. A., ed. CIGRE Publication 25, “Static Var Compensators”, Working Group 38–01. 1986.9
[B5] Petersson, T., ed. CIGRE Publication 77, “Analysis and Optimization of SVC Use on Transmission
Systems”, Task Force 4 of Working Group 38–05. 1993.
[B6] Shore, N. L., ed. CIGRE Publication 139, “Guide to the Specification and Design Evaluation of AC filters
for HVDC systems”, Working group 14.30. 1999.
[B7] CIGRE Publication 144, “Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM)”, Working Group 14.19, (I.A.
Erimez. and A. M. Foss, editors), 2000.
[B8] CIGRE Publication 553, “Special Aspects of AC Filter Design for HVDC Systems”, Working Group
B4.47, 2013.
[B9] CIGRE Publication 663, “Guidelines for the procurement and testing of STATCOMs”, Working Group
B4.53, 2016.
[B10] Forrest, J. A. C., “Harmonic load losses in HVDC converter transformers,” IEEE Transactions on Power
Delivery, vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 153–157, 1991, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/61.103734.
[B11] Ghahremani, E. and I. Kamwa, “Analysing the effects of different types of FACTS devices on the
steady-state performance of the Hydro-Québec network,” IET Generation, Transmission & Distribution,
Volume, vol. 8, Issue: 2, pp. 233–249, 2014, http://dx.doi.org/10.1049/iet-gtd.2013.0316.
[B12] Girgis, R. and K. Vedante, “Effects of GIC on Power Transformers and Power Systems”, 2012 IEEE
PES Transmission and Distribution Conference and Exposition (T&D), Orlando, FL, 2012, http://dx.doi.org/
10.1109/TDC.2012.6281595.
9
CIGRE publications are available from the Council on Large Electric Systems (http://www.e-cigre.org/).
48
IEEE Std 1052-2018

[B13] Hanson, D. J., “A transmission SVC for National Grid Company plc incorporating a ±75 MVAr
STATCOM”, IEEE Colloquium Flexible AC Transmission Systems - The FACTS, London, UK, 1998, http://dx
.doi.org/10.1049/ic:19980971.
[B14] Hanson, D. J., C. Horwill, B. D. Gemmell, and D. R. Monkhouse, “A STATCOM-based relocatable

SVC project in the UK for National Grid”, Power Engineering Society Winter Meeting, 2002. IEEE, New
York, NY, 2002, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/PESW.2002.985060.
[B15] Hanson, D. J., M. L. Woodhouse, C. Horwill, D. R. Monkhouse, and M. M. Osborne, “STATCOM: A

new era of reactive compensation,” Power Engineering Journal, Volume, vol. 16, Issue: 3, pp. 151–160, 2002,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1049/pe:20020308.
[B16] Hingorani, N. G. and L. Gyugyi, “Static Shunt Compensators: SVC and STATCOM”, in Understanding
FACTS: Concepts and Technology of Flexible AC Transmission Systems, Wiley-IEEE Press, 2000.
[B17] Horwill, C., A. J. Totterdell, D. J. Hanson, D. R. Monkhouse, and J. J. Price, “Commissioning of a

225 Mvar SVC incorporating A ±75 Mvar STATCOM at NGC’s 400 kV East Claydon substation”, Seventh
International Conference on AC-DC Power Transmission, London, UK, 2001, http://dx.doi.org/10.1049/cp:
20010548.
[B18] IEC 60056-03, High-voltage alternating-current circuit-breakers.10
[B19] IEC 60076-4, Power transformers - Part 4: Guide to the lightning impulse and switching impulse testing
- Power transformers and reactors.
[B20] IEC 60076-6, Power transformers – Part 6: Reactors.
[B21] IEC 60255, Measuring relays and protection equipment.
[B22] IEC 60871, Shunt capacitors for ac power systems having a rated voltage above 1000 V.
[B23] IEC 61000-4, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC): Testing and measurement techniques.
[B24] IEC 61071, Capacitors for power electronics.
[B25] IEC 61672/ANSI S1.4, Electroacoustics – Sound level meters.
[B26] IEC 61954-09, Power electronics for electrical transmission and distribution systems—Testing of
thyristor valves for static VAR compensators.
[B27] IEC 62001-4, High-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems—Guidance to the specification and design
evaluation of AC filters—Part 4: Equipment.
[B28] IEC 62747, Terminology for voltage-sourced converters (VSC) for HVDC systems.
[B29] IEC 62751-2, Determination of power losses in voltage sourced (VSC) valves for HVDC systems – Part
2: Modular multilevel converters.
[B30] IEC 61973, High voltage direct current (HVDC) substation audible noise.
IEC publications are available from the International Electrotechnical Commission (http://www.iec.ch) and the American National
10
Standards Institute (http://www.ansi.org/).
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

[B31] IEEE Special Publication PES-TR14, “Voltage Sourced Converter (VSC) Applications in Power
Transmission”, Mehraban, B., Edris, A., Bilodeau, H., et al, November 2007.,11,12
[B32] IEEE Std 80™, IEEE Guide for Safety in AC Substation Grounding.
[B33] IEEE Std 139™, IEEE Recommended Practice for the Measurement of Radio Frequency Emission
from Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) Equipment Installed on User’s Premises.
[B34] IEEE Std 430™, Standard Procedures for the Measurement of Radio Noise from Overhead Power Lines
and Substations.
[B35] IEEE Std 493™, Recommended Practice for the Design of Reliable Industrial and Commercial Power
Systems.
[B36] IEEE Std 693™, IEEE Recommended Practices for Seismic Design of Substations.
[B37] IEEE Std 1158™, Recommended Practice for Determination of Power Losses in High-Voltage Direct-
Current (HVDC) Converter Stations.
[B38] IEEE Std 1240™, IEEE Guide for the Evaluation of the Reliability of HVDC Converter Stations.
[B39] IEEE Std 1378™, IEEE Guide for Commissioning High Voltage Direct Current Converter Stations and
Associated Transmission Systems.
[B40] IEEE Std C37.90™, IEEE Standard for Relays and Relay Systems Associated with Electric Power
Apparatus.
[B41] IEEE Std C57.91™ IEEE Guide for loading Mineral-Oil-Immersed Transformers and Step-Voltage
Regulators.
[B42] IEEE Std C57.110™, IEEE Recommended Practice for Establishing Transformer Capability When
Supplying Non-Sinusoidal Load Currents.
[B43] IEEE/ANSI Std C63.2™, American National Standard for Specifications of Electromagnetic
Interference and Field Strength Measuring Instrumentation in the Frequency Range 9 kHz to 40 GHz.
[B44] IEEE P1032 (D19.2, January, 2019), Draft Guide for Protecting Transmission Static Var Compensators.13
[B45] Langner, D., G. Pilz, and M. Gurbiel, “Application benefits of Line- or self-commutated Static Var
Compensator”, 2014 IEEE PES General Meeting | Conference & Exposition, National Harbor, MD, 2014,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/PESGM.2014.6938988.
[B46] Miller, T. J. E., Reactive Power Control in Electric Systems, 1st edition, A Wiley Interscience
Publication, John Wiley and Son, 1982.
[B47] Mithulananthan, N., C. A. Canizares, J. Reeve, and G. J. Rogers, “Comparison of PSS, SVC, and
STATCOM controllers for damping power system oscillations,” IEEE Transactions on Power Systems,
Volume, vol. 18, Issue: 2, pp. 786–792, 2003, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/TPWRS.2003.811181.
11
The IEEE standards or products referred to in Annex A are trademarks owned by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers,
Incorporated.
12
IEEE publications are available from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (http://standards.ieee.org/).
13
Numbers preceded by P are IEEE authorized standards projects that were not approved by the IEEE-SA Standards Board at the time
this publication went to press. For information about obtaining drafts, contact the IEEE.
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[B48] Mohan, N., T. M. Undeland, and W. P. Robbins, Power Electronics: Convertors, Applications and
Design, 3rd Ed., John Wiley & Sons Inc., 2003.
[B49] Noroozian, M., A. N. Petersson, B. Thorvaldson, B. A. Nilsson, and C. W. Taylor, “Benefits of SVC and
STATCOM for electric utility application”, 2003 IEEE PES Transmission and Distribution Conference and
Exposition, Dallas, TX, 2003.
[B50] Pereira, M., D. Retzmann, J. Lottes, M. Wiesinger, and G. Wong, “SVC PLUS: An MMC STATCOM
for network and grid access applications”, 2011 IEEE Trondheim PowerTech, Trondheim, Norway, 2011.
[B51] Robert, A., T. Deflandre, et al., “Guide for assessing the network harmonic impedance”, Electra, no.
167–6, pp. 96 – 131, 1996.
[B52] Song, Y. H., and A. T. Johns, Flexible ac transmission systems (FACTS), London, Institution of Electrical
Engineers, 1999.
[B53] Tan, Y. L., “Analysis of line compensation by shunt-connected FACTS controllers: A comparison
between SVC and STATCOM,” IEEE Power Engineering Review, Volume, vol. 19, Issue: 8, pp. 57–58, 1998,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/39.780992.
[B54] Tyll, H. K., “FACTS technology for reactive power compensation and system control”, 2004 IEEE/PES
Transmission and Distribution Conference and Exposition: Latin America, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 2004, http://dx
.doi.org/10.1109/TDC.2004.1432515.
[B55] Visakhan, R., R. Rahul, and A. A. Kurian, “Comparative study of PSS and FACTS-POD for power
system performance enhancement”, 2015 International Conference on Power, Instrumentation, Control and
Computing (PICC), Thrissur, India, 2015, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/PICC.2015.7455768.
[B56] Wilkosz, K., M. Sobierajski, and W. Kwasnicki, “The analysis of harmonic generation of SVC and
STATCOM by EMTDC/PSCAD simulations”, 8th International Conference on Harmonics and Quality of
Power. Proceedings, Athens, Greece, 1998, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/ICHQP.1998.760154.
[B57] Woodford, D., “How FACTS controllers function in an AC transmission system”, IEEE Power
Engineering Society General Meeting, Denver, CO, 2004, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/PES.2004.1373059.
51
IEEE Std 1052-2018

Annex B
(informative)
Notes for a functional specification

This annex provides comment and discussion on the preparation of a STATCOM specification. Reference
should be made throughout this annex to the corresponding clauses in this guide. For ease of reference, the
corresponding clauses from the main text have been referenced. The term “user” may include purchaser and
consultant.
B.1 STATCOM system project description (refer to Clause 4)

B.1.1 Theoretical background of STATCOM operation principle
The main component of a STATCOM is the voltage sourced converter (VSC). Each VSC consists of a number
of dc capacitors with power electronic switches. Due to the switching algorithm of the power electronics, the
dc voltages of the capacitors form a voltage on the terminals of the converter with the same phase shift as the
voltage wave shape on the medium voltage busbar, via the amplitude of the artificial converter voltage the
resulting alternating current is controlled. The change of reactive current can be achieved in each time instant
of the reference sinusoidal current waveform (self-commutated). The current output is nearly independent of
the voltage level on the high-voltage (HV) side of the transformer.
The operating principle of a STATCOM for capacitive current output is shown in Figure B.1. The converter
generating the voltage, VCon , is connected via a reactor (voltage drop across reactor DVRe ) and transformer
(voltage drop across transformer DVTr ) to the network (voltage VN ). In the phasor diagram (Figure B.1), the
relationship between current and voltages is shown. In case the VSC voltage output is higher than the network
voltage, a capacitive current will flow into the network. In case of a lower VSC voltage than the network
voltage, an inductive current will flow. In case of equal amplitude between network and VSC voltage, no
current will flow.
Figure B.1—Operating principle of a STATCOM – example of capacitive output
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B.1.2 Purpose of a STATCOM system

The basic action of a STATCOM system is to change the generation or absorption of reactive power rapidly in
response to a control signal. In most applications, the action is to control a given busbar voltage. Sometimes
the purpose is to contribute directly to the reactive power balance at a particular point in an electrical system.
In most transmission networks, the voltage at various points is largely dependent on the power, and reactive
power flows between them. Changing the flows, by changing the supply of available vars at a node in the
network, results in a change in the voltages of the network. A STATCOM system, therefore, brings the ability
to regulate the voltage of a power system by means of appropriate control of reactive generation and absorption
at a point in the system.
Where the user has not determined the final ratings and requires studies as part of the contract to make a
final definition, a base rating may be specified for bidding and evaluation. STATCOMs applied in distribution
systems are typically less complex than transmission STATCOMs in their design, manufacture, operation,
and maintenance. Industrial STATCOMs are typically applied at or near a load center to mitigate voltage
fluctuations, flicker, phase unbalance, or other load-related disturbances. This guide does not specifically
address industrial and distribution STATCOMs although many features of the guide may be applicable.
The wording of Clause 4 anticipates the normal usage of a STATCOM system as being the control of voltage,
but a STATCOM system can improve various aspects of power system quality by suitable control action. The
improvement of one aspect will sometimes degrade another, however, and it may therefore be necessary to
set priorities and/or limits to control actions and their effects. The following are 11 main functional objectives
in power system performance for which a STATCOM system may be used. The user is invited to select from
these objectives and to insert them in Clause 4, giving the priority required. The specific control functions in
Clause 8 will follow from these objectives.
a) Voltage control
1) Steady state voltage control
The controlled voltage may be at a different point from the point of connection of the STATCOM.
2) Voltage stability
To increase the capacity of a circuit that is limited by LV at the receiving end.
To restore busbar voltage to normal after a system disturbance, e.g., due to a fault or load
rejection.
3) System stability
To increase capacity that is limited by dynamic stability between machines or machine groups.
Transmission capacity in such cases may be limited by voltage excursions on certain busbars,
and the action of the STATCOM system may be to limit these excursions to acceptable values.
4) Power oscillation damping
The deliberate adjustment of STATCOM reference voltage is also possible to increase the overall
damping of power system oscillations following a disturbance, usually in the range of 0.2 to 2.0 Hz,
on the network close to the STATCOM. Power or frequency measurements are made, combined, and
fed into a supplementary control function, which will produce a modulating output, optimized for gain
and phase shift, for the range of frequency oscillations for that part of the network.
b) Reactive power control
1) Coordination of var contributions from other equipment
To control the switching of externally connected shunt capacitors and reactors.
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2) Fast correction of impact of variable loads

The generation or absorption of vars to counteract the effect on voltage of the variation of power
and var demand of loads that are balanced between phases but variable in time (e.g., convertor-
fed drives for rolling mills).
3) Fast correction of power factor
The generation and absorption of vars to meet a particular demand of a load or group of loads, or
to counteract a flicker-generating load.
4) The correction of unbalance
The generation or absorption of vars asymmetrically between the phases to counteract the negative
phase sequence components of loads or system components. The action can balance phase voltages by
adding reactive loads in two phases to offset an active load in the other phase.
c) Control of non-power frequency effects
1) Harmonic filtering
To reduce the harmonic voltage distortion caused by the harmonic currents generated by the
STATCOM itself.
2) Subharmonic filtering
The STATCOM system cannot be expected to contribute to the removal of all subsynchronous
currents or resonances. However, it may, by suitable control responses in the appropriate
frequency range, either avoid worsening them or provide a counteracting effect.
3) Managing of background harmonics
The STATCOM system may be required to be designed to maintain background harmonics
within an acceptable level. However, it may, by suitable control responses in the appropriate
frequency range, either avoid worsening them or provide a counteracting effect. The STATCOM
system is not expected to reduce all background harmonics. Controlling background harmonics
may require additional active filtering control loops on the STATCOM or additional passive or
active filters. This may result in additional losses in the added components and/or an increase in
the rating of the STATCOM system.
If more than one objective is selected, it is important that the user specify the priority in which the STATCOM
is to respond to the objectives.
B.2 Scope of supply and schedule (refer to Clause 5)

Transmission STATCOM systems or other STATCOM systems typically include several of the following
power circuit elements:
a) Coupling power transformer

b) Switchgear
c) Shunt-connected TSRs and/or shunt-connected TSCs
d) Mechanically switched capacitor (MSC) and mechanically switched reactor (MSR)
e) Fixed shunt capacitor filter banks
The user should define whether the STATCOM system will be supplied on a “turnkey” basis or as equipment
only. In either case, it is important to describe all equipment and services required of the supplier (refer to 5.1).
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The physical scope of a STATCOM system supply should carefully describe the interfaces between the
STATCOM system supplier and all other entities. For example, the interfaces often include the following:
— The point of connection at power circuit entry

— The point of interconnection for station service power
— All communications and operator control interfaces
— Infeed of voltage and current signals (e.g., from the PCC if it is outside the scope of supply)
— Other physical interfaces that may exist at the STATCOM substation fence boundary (e.g., water
supply, sewer, driveway)
If any MSC or MSR is required or already exists, it should be described here. If the equipment is to be installed
in an existing building, this requirement should be described here.
The time scales and extent of service and monitoring by the user should be stated.
B.3 Site and environmental data (refer to Clause 6)

It is important to specify all local site and environmental conditions for which the STATCOM system will be
designed.
The STATCOM system should be designed to meet ambient environmental and system conditions. Usually,
the user has the best information on, and access to, the soil and ground conditions at the site, but surveys
sometimes need to be carried out. The user should also understand that unnecessarily onerous ambient
design conditions may increase the price of the STATCOM. With this understanding in mind, the design
environmental and system conditions should be clearly specified by the user.
Possible additional information for Clause 6 is as follows:
a) Atmospheric pollution levels can be given as light, medium, heavy, or very heavy, per IEC 60815.
b) If evaporative or once-through cooling water may be used for heat rejection, its availability and
chemical content should be given.
c) The STATCOM system should continue to operate correctly, without protective tripping, up to a
seismic event defined by appropriate event spectra for the region in question. In many cases only the
maximum simultaneous horizontal and vertical acceleration can be specified (IEEE Std 693™ [B36]).
d) The STATCOM system should safely shut down and de-energize during a seismic event beyond the
level or outside the spectra defined in item c) (IEEE Std 693 [B36]).
B.4 Power system characteristics (refer to Clause 7)

This subclause describes the power system to which the STATCOM system will be connected. The data defines
both the normal and extreme conditions at the STATCOM system station for which the STATCOM system will
be required to continue in uninterrupted operation.
A phase angle shift occurs after an event that changes the topology and the operation of a power system,
including a reconfiguration of the transmission grid and the dispatch of generation or faults. In some cases,
the phase shift may create synchronization error resulting in transient voltages and currents that should be
accounted for in the design.
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The user should supply the conditions under which the phase angle will occur or a system equivalent
representation.
The following items might be added:
a) Existing surge arrester data

b) Existing local generators and associated torsional modes of frequency
c) Existing circuit breaker and circuit switcher characteristics
d) Existing ac relay characteristics and configuration
e) Existing power line carrier equipment and characteristics
f) Existing fault disturbance and event recorders
g) AC system topology in local vicinity
It may be desirable to specify additional values of the following to represent extreme operating conditions
[i.e., the more severe conditions for which the STATCOM system should remain connected (and, therefore,
able to respond normally as soon as conditions recover) but not necessarily act normally]. These values and
the required response should be given with the data in Clause 7. It is, therefore, implied that, beyond these
conditions, the STATCOM may act to protect itself, as follows:
h) Maximum continuous ac system voltage

i) Minimum continuous ac system voltage
j) Maximum temporary ac system voltage (level and duration)
k) Minimum temporary ac system voltage (level and duration)
l) Maximum continuous ac frequency
m) Minimum continuous ac frequency
n) Maximum temporary ac frequency (level and duration)
o) Minimum temporary ac frequency (level and duration)
p) Maximum rate of change of system frequency (df/dt)
q) Maximum negative sequence voltage component (% of fundamental)
r) Maximum zero-sequence voltage component (% of fundamental)
s) GIC in transformer neutral (refer to Annex D)
If the STATCOM system is to be connected to an existing transformer’s tertiary winding, it is necessary to

describe this transformer and give its full nameplate details and the potential short-circuit current at the tertiary
terminals. The knowledge of the saturation characteristic of this transformer as seen from the tertiary side is
one important factor for the design and should be provided in the specification.
The busbar voltage that is to be controlled by the STATCOM action should be identified (see Clause 4). It
is necessary to take into account that, because of the inherent coupling between the primary and secondary
windings, the control of one busbar may have an adverse effect on the voltage of the other.
Instead of supplying item (29) in Table 3 of Clause 7 (supply system harmonic impedance data), the user
may prefer to supply system data and require the contractor to perform calculations of the system’s harmonic
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

response. This approach is generally not recommended because it is inevitable that each tenderer/contractor
will produce different results, and it is often the case that the user is then unable to determine which is correct.
If known, data of the existing harmonic currents in the system are most valuable. All power systems carry
harmonic currents to some degree, and a new filter will act as a sink for them. To identify such sources with
their influence on STATCOM system design is not practicable unless those sources are major, identifiable
sources. In reality the background distortion comprises a multiplicity of small unidentified harmonic current
sources resulting in harmonic voltage distortion. The compromise would be to represent this background
distortion as a harmonic voltage source behind a system harmonic impedance. One negative aspect is that the
stresses on STATCOM components might increase strongly if the minimum resistance of the harmonic system
impedance is not properly represented.
B.5 Main STATCOM system characteristics (refer to Clause 8)

B.5.1 General overview
The detailed STATCOM design will depend upon the user’s specification of the following:
— Steady-state and short-term (overload) reactive power and voltage ratings

— Control objectives and performance
— Harmonic performance
— Losses
— Reliability and availability requirements
B.5.2 STATCOM system rating (refer to 8.1)

B.5.2.1 Refers to 8.1 a), b), c) of main text
Where a STATCOM system controls the voltage of a busbar different from its connection point, add “the
nominal ac bus voltage to which the STATCOM is connected is _______ kV and 1 per unit refers to _______
kV.”
The usual primary requirement of the STATCOM is to support the network voltage in post-fault and/or heavy
load conditions in order to maintain or increase the power transmission capability. It may also be required to
limit voltage variations caused by the daily load cycle and to help minimize temporary overvoltage conditions,
or to achieve other objectives outlined in Clause 4.
It will normally help to clarify the user’s requirements and the supplier’s responsibility by using the so-
called voltage current characteristic of the V/I diagram [refer to Figure 3(b)] to describe and define the
steady state and overload operating regions and their impact on the STATCOM system component rating.
It is recommended that the base ratings [points A and B in Figure 3(b)] be defined at 1 per unit voltage. For
a STATCOM system there are a number of issues to consider when defining the V/I characteristic. The VSC
itself has the characteristic shown in Figure B.2. Note that VSC current overload capability, if required, has to
be included through design and is not necessarily inherent to the VSC.
In the literature this is the V/I diagram used to describe most STATCOM system applications, and refers to
the VSC characteristics. However, in most cases concerning transmission applications there will be some
degree of capacitive offset due to system harmonic and telephone interference requirements. Depending on
VSC switching frequency and topology, the harmonic content generated by the VSC will vary. Although the
filter rating required generally is small in relation to the VSC size, the offset will change the characteristic of
Figure B.2 into an appearance similar to that in Figure B.3. By adding fixed capacitance a portion depending
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Figure B.2—Example of a STATCOM VSC V/I characteristic (shaded part corresponds to

steady state operation)
Figure B.3—STATCOM system V/I characteristic with fixed capacitor offset (STATCOM part
indicated by dotted line)
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on the voltage squared is introduced to the STATCOM system characteristic. With increasing fixed portion, the
STATCOM system thus becomes increasingly “SVC like” in its characteristic, meaning that the characteristic
shows the properties of a constant admittance when operating at VSC limit.
From Figure B.3 it is clear that the part depending on “voltage squared” that increases the capacitive range
also inflicts a corresponding reduction in the inductive range. Depending on the inductive requirements it
may be pertinent to pay attention to such effects and clearly specify the HV requirements the STATCOM is
required to meet. In the capacitive range it may, for the same reasons, be advisable to include an additional
point at LV operation to secure performance based on voltage recovery requirements. Thus, if the STATCOM
system, offset banks included, is to achieve rated current at other than 1 per unit voltage, such extra points
Figure B.4—STATCOM system V/I characteristic with fixed and TSC based capacitive offset
(STATCOM part indicated by dotted line)
require definition. For hybrid solutions, utilizing both VSC and TSC/TSR branches the offset effect is even
more pronounced depending on the larger offset. Note, however, that it is only the fixed portion of the total
capacitive offset that inflicts inductive reduction due to offset. The characteristic of a hybrid system utilizing a
TSC branch is illustrated in Figure B.4.
It is evident that the hybrid STATCOM system, having a significant part of the var output depending on the
voltage squared, strongly resembles an SVC when operating at capacitive limit. This resemblance is more
pronounced the larger the TSC and fixed capacitive part is in relation to the VSC rating. Inductive offset can be
achieved through one or more TSR branches in the same manner as capacitive offset. The characteristic for a
STATCOM system with a combination of inductive and capacitive offset is depicted in Figure B.5.
System studies are frequently carried out using a per unit system with, commonly, 100 MVA equal to 1 per
unit. This value is convenient for the user to adopt when specifying a STATCOM system. The rated line-to-line
voltage is normally the base value, equal to 1 per-unit voltage. The rating of a STATCOM system in Mvar is
described as the product of rated line-to-line voltage, rated line current, and the √3. In per-unit terms, with the
rated voltage equal to 1 per unit, the per-unit rated Mvar of the STATCOM is equal to the per-unit rated current
on a base of 100 MVA. If the STATCOM is to achieve rated current at other than 1 per unit voltage, such extra
points require definition.
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Figure B.5—STATCOM system V/I characteristic with TSC based capacitive offset and TSR
based inductive offset
The nominal capacitive and inductive ratings of the STATCOM system are defined, respectively, as operating
points A and B in Figure B.2, Figure B.3, Figure B.4, and Figure B.5. The continuous operating range of
the STATCOM system is typically specified by bounding the allowable continuous capacitive voltage range
and the allowable continuous inductive voltage range. A more detailed overvoltage cycle, based on user
experience, can be specified to help ensure bidders design to a common basis.
B.5.2.2 Refers to 8.1 e), f) of main text
B.5.2.2.1 Specifying LVRT and OVRT requirements
The short-term operating range of the STATCOM system is typically specified by bounding the allowable
short-term capacitive voltage range (for magnitude and duration) and the allowable short-term inductive
voltage range.
Point D in Figure B.2, Figure B.3, Figure B.4, and Figure B.5 covers transient and dynamic overvoltages in the
system and typically lies in the range of 1.3 per unit to 1.6 per unit. However, higher temporary overvoltage
profile could be specified and the converter should be designed accordingly. It should be noted that the
maximum operating voltage of a STATCOM is bound by the possible converter voltage that will control the
current through the power electronic switches. The junction temperature of the power electronic is a function
of the through current.
The temporary minimum operating voltage of a STATCOM system (point C in Figure B.2, Figure B.3,
Figure B.4, and Figure B.5) should be specified; a value of 0.4 p.u. (positive sequence) has sometimes been
specified on the basis that a voltage below that level indicates a severe fault condition for which it is better not
to switch on capacitors. Otherwise, temporary overvoltages could be made worse when the fault is cleared and
voltage recovers. An example of data for a STATCOM system V/I characteristic with capacitive and inductive
offsets as shown in Figure B.5 is given as follows:
Primary voltage: 400 kV = 1.0 pu

Design point capacitive: x MVar (A) at 1.0 pu
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Design point inductive: y MVar (B) at 1.0 pu

Reference voltage setting: Vref = 0.95 (M)…1.05 (K) pu
Maximum temporary operating voltage: 1.3 p.u. (D)
Minimum temporary operating voltage: 0.6 p.u. (C)
Slope adjustment: Min: 0 (defined by line A-B)…
Max: 10% (defined by lines K-F and H-M))
The V/I characteristic given by the manufacturer may include the following operating limitations imposed by
the overload capabilities of the STATCOM system components:
Transformer current limitation (a)

Limited steady state overvoltage operation (b)
VSC bus voltage limitation (c)
With this information in mind, the user should specify short-term high-voltage (HV) and low-voltage (LV)
situations, so that the STATCOM system may give all possible assistance at times of system stress. The LVRT
and OVRT capability of the STATCOM/STATCOM system should be investigated by the user during transient
and dynamic studies using electromagnetic transient principles. This information is then used to determine
the STATCOM/STATCOM system reactive power output during transient events. Exemplary time sequence
diagrams providing concurrent voltage and current values versus time duration shown should be provided by
the user to demonstrate the requirement for the vendor. Figure B.6 shows an example of how to specify the
LVRT (or undervoltage ride through) capability and Figure B.7 shows an example of how to specify OVRT
capability of the STATCOM system.
Figure B.6—STATCOM system LVRT capability
B.5.2.2.2 Additional information about undervoltage operation of STATCOM systems
Full capacitive operation of a STATCOM system (Figure B.5, point E) is typically required in system operating
conditions where the system demands maximum possible reactive power support to overcome critical system
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Figure B.7—STATCOM system OVRT capability
outage conditions (e.g., during system faults and voltage recovery). This operating point is typically not
required for continuous STATCOM system operation. Therefore, allowing this operating condition, taking into
account the inherent overload capabilities of the other STATCOM system components, if available, may result
in lower costs for the whole STATCOM system. For example, transformer overload capability is described in
IEEE Std C57.91™ [B41]. Time constants on heating of transformers may be in the order of tens of minutes.
B.5.2.2.3 Additional information about over-voltage operation of STATCOM systems
Additional studies must be performed by the vendor with proper model representation of the STATCOM
system to determine the maximum overvoltage and duration to which the system and its components will be
subjected and designed for. As a consequence, the overvoltage profile could be higher and of a longer duration
than obtained from the system studies conducted by the user. In this case, the STATCOM system should not be
allowed to block or trip.
When operating at system overvoltages, VSCs are inherently less resilient than thyristor controlled reactors
(TCRs). For STATCOMs, overvoltage handling capability therefore becomes an important design factor,
considering system post fault behavior as well as the overall network voltage profile. In particular, this
becomes a critical point for hybrid STATCOMS, i.e., dynamic compensation using combinations of VSC
and thyristor switched branches such as capacitors (TSCs) or reactors (TSRs). For TSCs in particular, it is
important to rapidly block the bank as the system voltage recovers or the capacitor will contribute to post
fault voltage overshoot. During this process it is essential that the VSC has sufficient blocking capability to
maintain its controllability and enable safe removal of TSC branches.
In addition, breaker switched capacitor banks (MSCs), either existing or planned, should be accounted for
when determining VSC blocking capability. This is valid for HV side banks, but, in particular, if breaker
switched banks are applied on the MV side of the STATCOM step down transformer. Although the latter
should be avoided if possible, care has to be taken to address the VSC voltage rating in order to achieve
sufficient blocking capability margin, regardless of choice of capacitor bank type.
Manufacturers should therefore be required to show VSC - STATCOM and STATCOM hybrid behavior at HV
and post fault conditions, e.g., as part of the project valve and control design verification process.
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B.5.2.3 Refers to 8.1 g), h) of main text
A STATCOM system can provide an overload capability if required by the user. The overload can be both
capacitive and inductive. This overload, if required by the user, has to be defined in the technical specification;
it is not intrinsic to the STATCOM system. All components of the STATCOM system that are needed during
overload operation should be able to withstand the resulting stresses for the specified duration of the overload.
The overload profiles should be determined by the user during transient system studies and should include the
voltage magnitude during the overload condition, the duration, and the expected STATCOM system output.
B.5.3 Control objectives (refer to 8.2)

B.5.3.1 STATCOM functions with priority (refer to 8.2.1)
Select the required functions with priority from the menu of 8.2.1.
Further functions may refer to the following:
a) TSC or TSR switching logic

b) Automatic gain control (optimizer and supervisor)
c) Control of external devices
The measuring transducer, which supplies the signal of the busbar voltage to be controlled, should be
compatible with the performance, e.g., response time, required of the STATCOM. If separately supplied, the
transducer should have an appropriate response (usually one cycle) to the total objective.
Normal control action should be based on measurements of the network voltage. Measurements can be done
on a single-phase basis with additional balancing loops to reduce harmonics or by using a rectified mean of
all the voltage signals. There is a choice between deliberately balancing each phase (with the disadvantage of
responding to unbalance voltages) and responding to the phase-sequence components.
Further functions may be specified as follows:
— It may be possible to restrict fault-clearance overvoltages.

— The STATCOM can offer the most useful performance under switching and fault conditions. It
can reduce energization transients when it is switched on. To avoid post-fault overvoltages, it
should not connect capacitors (TSCs), nor be sized to counteract them by extending the inductive
capability. During the recovery period immediately after a fault is cleared and while the STATCOM is
resynchronizing its controls to the new network conditions, this recovery time should be a minimum,
not exceeding two cycles.
— Details should be provided of the synchronizing system to show how it remains functional for up to 1 s
during a three-phase fault.
For control accuracy, refer to 9.4.
The user may also describe any special operating strategy for the potential STATCOM system in the overall
system operations of the user. Some concepts are described in B.1.
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B.5.3.2 Response (refer to 8.2.2)
The dynamic characteristic of the control system of the STATCOM system is the response to a step change in
the system voltage, so that the STATCOM system remains within its controllable range. Such response time
includes the delays in voltage measuring circuits.
An established method of verifying the speed of response of a closed-loop control system is to measure the
time to reach 90% of the total change from an ordered small step-change (refer to Figure 8). The overshoot
may be limited also. This validation can be performed on a real time simulator using the actual controller. A
Thevenin network equivalent is sufficient for this purpose. Several responses may be demonstrated at different
gains, slopes, operating points, and short circuit levels. A small step can be injected into the control system as
a test (small disturbance). The step should require the operation of linear control, no TSC and/or mechanically
switched devices switching should occur, and no limits should be reached.
Once at site and in the commissioning process, a step change to an element of an active power system for such
verification may be obtained by switching off a shunt reactor or capacitor, or another STATCOM system.
Alternatively, a simulator or model test, using perhaps a voltage reference step applied to the real control
system, is a solution at the factory test stage. The voltage reference step applied should be representative for a
system voltage change. In either case, a series of steps can be made from part reactive to part capacitive output,
or vice versa, where different numbers of reactive elements are switched. In practice there are delays of up to a
cycle in measuring three-phase MVA output, and these delays should be taken into account.
Many factors affect the response time of a STATCOM system, in particular the gain, slope setting, system
impedance, and the number of STATCOM systems connected to the busbar. Increasing system impedance
(that is, the system becomes weaker) leads to a faster response and, ultimately, instability. The user may be
expected to specify a response time for the normal range of operating short circuit level, defined in Clause 7.
It is important also to define the weakest operating condition so that stability is maintained with a margin, and
this condition will define the highest effective loop gain. Normally, with an appropriate choice of the slope, a
response time of 50 ms is reasonable. The user should avoid specifying an unnecessarily short response time
for normal operating conditions. When the normal range of short circuit strength is very wide, controls in
which the gain setting is adaptive to system strength can be used.
In very weak systems, resonance issues can also arise, especially if the capacitive rating of the STATCOM
system is high in comparison to system strength. The ratio between network minimum strength and STATCOM
system capacitive rating is an important factor to consider when writing a specification. The network minimum
strength is defined as the minimum short circuit MVA at the PCC, and the STATCOM system rating is defined
as the capacitive rating of the STATCOM system in Mvar. Typical ratios for different types of STATCOM
systems are listed in the Table B.1.
Table B.1—Normal minimum short circuit ratios for STATCOM systems

Type of STATCOM system Minimum ratio
Network strength: STATCOM system rating
Pure STATCOM 2:1
STATCOM system without mechanically switched devices 2:1 to 3:1
STATCOM system with mechanically switched devices 3:1
NOTE—Mechanically switched devices are connected to the HV side. They are not used for dynamic purposes.
As can be seen from the values given in Table B.1, the minimum ratios that are considered normal for the design
of STATCOM systems are highly dependent on the type of STATCOM system that is being implemented. The
minimum short circuit ratio defined by the user also has an impact on the choice of the type of STATCOM
system.
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Ratios lower than those specified in Table B.1 are possible, but detailed studies should be performed at tender
stage to identify any resonance or control interaction issues. Control response time and the rating of each
branch also need to be studied very carefully. Longer response times are advised. In such cases, the user should
provide the following information in the specification:
— Detailed model of the network

— Appropriate modeling of lines, transformers, any surrounding flexible ac transmission systems
(FACTS) devices, loads, and other network elements
— All special network conditions that can lead to very low short circuit strength and resonance conditions
— All critical network events
Definition of response time should be based on measured quantities, i.e., signals within the voltage controller
are not necessarily representative for evaluation of step response requirement.
B.5.4 Harmonic performance (refer to 8.3)

B.5.4.1 General overview
The maximum permissible voltage distortion in transmission systems (often termed planning level) is laid
down in various national standards. The contribution of harmonic distortion from the VSC should not exceed
a specific amount, which has to be stated by the STATCOM system purchaser so as not to result in excessive
voltage distortion in cases where high harmonic distortion already exists due to other harmonic sources.
Consideration should also be given as to whether the specified limits are ‘incremental,’ i.e., due only to the
effects of STATCOM system generated harmonics, or ‘aggregate,’ i.e., due to the effects of the STATCOM
system generated harmonics plus the effects that the STATCOM system has on pre-existing distortion (due to
magnification or attenuation). The latter is preferred because the principal concern in respect of power quality
is the total change that the STATCOM system causes. This is particularly relevant in applications using fixed
capacitors or thyristor-switched capacitors (TSCs), where often only an incremental specification is provided.
A low loss designed TSC while not generating harmonic distortion itself can, however, lead to a significant
increase in pre-existing distortion due to resonance between it and the supply system.
The STATCOM system purchaser should also specify whether the performance limits are such as to satisfy
planning levels at the PCC itself only, or to satisfy planning limits at ‘remote’ busbars also (to a certain degree
this depends on the performance standard chosen).
Should a filter be required, the same considerations apply as for an SVC system (refer to IEEE Std 1031).
TSC or TSR systems usually do not produce harmonic currents, and they may or may not incorporate harmonic
filters. However STATCOM systems based on presence of TSC branches may impact existing distortion levels
by (series) resonance effects with the supply system and will have an influence on the harmonic performance
at the PCC. The harmonic performance specification should be developed for these types of configurations to
help ensure that background levels are not increased beyond planning levels by virtue of resonance effects by
indicating maximum permissible magnification (gain) factors.
The design of the harmonic filters and the selection of their components require careful study, and these
studies are described in Clause 11 of this guide. The purpose of this clause is to describe the engineering
considerations that go into specifying harmonic performance for a specific STATCOM system.
In voltage sourced converters (VSCs) the harmonic source has to be represented as a harmonic voltage
source, whereas in SVCs the TCR is considered as an equivalent harmonic current source. The principles
of performance/rating assessment remain the same. By their nature, STATCOMs can produce harmonics of
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orders higher than the 50th. These high order harmonics are a growing body of interest in the industry and are
being studied by some working groups. However, EMT simulation models of network components that are
currently available are not accurate at such high frequencies, which is a major difficulty when trying to assess
the impact of those harmonics. Such models could be developed, but the validation process would be very time
consuming and would offer little added value. Furthermore, no measurement devices are readily available
for such high frequencies, hence the difficulty of performing any verification for harmonic orders above the
50th. For those reasons, and because there is no consensus in the industry, the present guide does not discuss
harmonics above the 50th.
It is possible for the sum of the harmonic current in the capacitive elements and the harmonic current in
the transmission line to be higher than the harmonic current produced by the STATCOM. This phenomenon
is known as current amplification and comes about through parallel resonance (otherwise known as anti-
resonance) between the capacitive elements and transmission system. The amount of harmonic currents
that a given STATCOM system can impose on the transmission system, without producing unacceptable
consequences, will depend on several factors, such as the following:
— Size (rating) of the STATCOM system in relation to the capacity of the transmission system
— Location and nature of other equipment on the transmission system that may incur interference
— Compliance with the specified harmonic performance limits at the PCC only or at all nodes in the
supply system (consideration of remote node effects/mutual impedance effects)
— Harmonic impedance of the transmission system
— Presence of existing harmonics on the power system that will add to the harmonics produced by the
STATCOM
The determination of acceptable harmonic limits for the STATCOM system is best done using the methodology
of IEEE Std 519 or other national standards in other countries.
NOTE—Even though IEEE Std 519 specifically disclaims applicability to high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and
STATCOM systems, the principles described in that standard are suitable for use in specifying the harmonic performance
of a STATCOM system.
B.5.4.2 Basics for harmonic performance specification and calculation
Although the harmonic distortion produced by a STATCOM originates as a voltage source in the converter, the
harmonic performance of the STATCOM can be specified in terms of either harmonic voltages or harmonic
currents, or in terms of both at the point where the STATCOM is connected to the transmission system, the
PCC, the harmonic voltage is related to the harmonic current by Ohm’s Law. That is to say:
Vn = Z en × I n (B.1)
where
Vn is the voltage at harmonic “n” at the PCC

Z en is the harmonic impedance looking into the transmission system at the PCC
I n is the current injected into the system at harmonic “n”
Users/owners should examine their system viewed from the proposed point of connection of the STATCOM
system or other points, such as the PCC, for harmonic impedance (both present and predicted future). Various
system conditions should be considered depending on load and generation level, future system extension and
system outage conditions, etc. Impedance results should be provided in text files: f (Hz), R (Ohm), and X
(Ohm) with frequency steps not larger than 1 Hz. From all investigated system cases R/X diagrams can be
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plotted for each harmonic frequency with a range chosen to be not less than ±5% of the respective harmonic
(refer to Figure B.8). These R/X diagrams will reveal “search areas” (refer to Figure B.8) within which the
impedance at each frequency can always be found resulting in worst case harmonic distortion in the system.
Typically the maximum value of n might be in the range of 25 to 29 for TCR based SVCs using a dedicated
SVC transformer but may be chosen higher (n up to 50) for direct connected SVCs or STATCOM systems.
An example of the harmonic impedance sectors of Z en is given in Figure B.8.
Figure B.8—Examples of equivalent impedance areas based on a set of system conditions
All studied system cases should be within a chosen boundary, which, finally, is used to calculate the harmonic
distortion at the PCC for each frequency. The same area or an increased area may be used for filter rating
calculations.
If the network data necessary for the calculation of the network impedance areas are not obtainable, the
harmonic network impedance areas (sector diagrams defined by maximum and minimum short circuit level at
the PCC) defined in Chapter 7.3 of CIGRE publication 139 [B6] should be used. Some additional information
may be found in IEC 62001-3 [B27], but care should be taken that not all information included there is relevant
to STATCOM systems.
Please note, however, that the sector diagrams proposed by CIGRE publication 139 [B6] are only a theoretical
approximation of the network conditions and might not cover all contingencies and other parameters of the
power network. If the CIGRE sectors are used during the bidding process, the final system data should be
verified against the initial assumptions. The STATCOM system topology may have to be modified. This may
impact the schedule, cost, and station footprint.
The system impedance values at harmonic frequencies can also be found in a single search area on an R/X
diagram similar to Figure B.8 but using only one search area for all harmonics n = 2 to the maximum n specified
may result in uneconomic filter design. It is preferable to define smaller areas for each harmonic (or harmonic
range), and minimum values of resistance and impedance angle as described in CIGRE Publication 139 [B6],
CIGRE Publication 553 [B8], and IEC 62001-1 [B27].
For a STATCOM system connected to a tertiary winding of an existing transformer or when harmonic
distortion requirements at remote buses apply, additional impedances must be considered. The impedances
to be calculated are effectively the voltages that appear at the bus of interest for 1 p.u. current injection at the
STATCOM system connection point. For the STATCOM system connected to an existing tertiary winding,
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the mutual impedances from the tertiary to the primary (HV) and secondary (MV) terminals are needed. The
self-impedance is the harmonic impedance seen from the tertiary winding of the transformer. For calculation
of harmonic performance at remote buses, the mutual impedance between the points of connection and various
remote buses is required. It is preferable that data is given in the form of tables with frequency, self-impedance,
and mutual impedances for each system contingency.
Harmonic network impedances for HV and MV sides can, in worst case, be used for harmonic distortion
calculations at both buses for STATCOM systems connected to a tertiary winding, i.e., for each individual
harmonic the impedances within the two loci resulting in the highest voltage distortion can be identified and
used for harmonic rating and performance calculations.
The use of these self and mutual impedances will eliminate the risk of overdesign of filters and thereby help
minimize the cost impact due to unlikely network configurations.
Harmonic distortion at remote buses, caused by the injected STATCOM system current, may in some cases be
higher than at the injection bus. In those cases the mutual impedance data is extensive.
Figure B.9 shows the definition for self and mutual impedances.
Figure B.9—Explanation of self (Zself) and mutual (Zmut) impedances
A current I1_ny injected at node 1 results in a voltage V1_ny at node 1 due to impedance Znet or Zself. A current I1_ny
injected at node 1 results in a voltage V2_ny at node 2 due to impedance Z12 or Zmut, according to Equation (B.2)
and Equation (B.3) as follows:
V1 _ ny
Z self = (B.2)
I1 _ ny
where
Z self is the self-impedance of the equipment connected to node 1

V1_ ny is the voltage appearing at node 1
I1_ ny is the current injected at node 1
V2 _ ny
Z mut = (B.3)
I1 _ ny
where
Z self Z mut is the mutual impedance seen from node 2 of the equipment connected to node 1
V2 _ ny is the voltage appearing at node 2
I1_ ny is the current injected at node 1
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The design of a harmonic filter involves a number of considerations, many of which are conflicting. In order to
make the supplier aware of the requirements for a particular project, the filter specification should include the
following:
a) The required harmonic performance for normal operation (refer to 8.3).

b) Any permissible deviation from the normal performance, which might be accepted under unusual
circumstances, or for a short time, e.g., possible changes from nominal values of frequency per
Clause 7, which will change the tuning of the filter. (Relaxing the required filter performance under
unusual or rare conditions may result in considerable cost saving in the filters.)
c) The temperature range (refer to Clause 6) over which the filter should operate. (The capacitance of
power capacitors changes slightly with temperature.)
d) The extent to which the filter should perform without one or more capacitor units or filter arms,
provided that this condition is alarmed. All types of capacitors should have an unbalance or other
protection to remove the bank if internal elements or external fuses have failed to the extent that
further fuse operation or element failure could lead to damage or an undesired operational condition.
e) The presence of any existing harmonic distortion on the transmission system. The harmonic filter in
the STATCOM system will act as a “sink” that may attract any existing harmonics to the STATCOM.
Therefore, these harmonics will impose additional duty on the filter and should be accounted for in the
rating of filter components.
f) Values to be specified. Harmonics up to about the 50th harmonic may affect other power apparatus
connected to the transmission system. Therefore, it is common to specify limits for the following:
1) Vn is the maximum voltage for any single harmonic below the 50th
2) In is the maximum current at any single harmonic below the 50th
3) THD is the total harmonic distortion including all harmonics to the 50th
Although no general consensus exists yet for the limits and whether voltage or current distortion is preferable
as a design point, IEEE Std 519 presents several tentative suggestions. Possible wording for harmonic
performance specification might be the following:
— Alternative specification. The maximum voltage distortion at the _______ kV bus should not exceed
_______% for any individual harmonic and should not exceed _______% for the rms sum of all the
harmonics from the second to the 50th harmonic.
Individual voltage distortion is typically set between 1% and 3%. rms voltage distortion is typically
set between 2% and 5% although lower values may be used in other countries according to applicable
national standards.
— Alternative specification. The maximum current distortion in the specified connection should not
exceed _______% for any individual harmonic and should not exceed _______% for the rms sum of
all the harmonics from the second to the 50th harmonic.
Individual current distortion is typically set between 2% and 8% (e.g., IEEE Std 519). rms current
distortion is typically set between 5% and 10%. Specify the base current for 100%.
Current distortion is typically only specified at locations where inductive coupling to other lines may
occur.
For rating purposes, it is rather conservative to define the whole of the voltage and current characteristic [refer
to area EFJH in Figure 3(b),] as continuous operating range; therefore, the user may define a more limited,
practical operating range of the STATCOM within the characteristic to be associated with the maximum
harmonic stresses on the STATCOM system components. By examining the expected use of the STATCOM
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system (i.e., normal capacitive output and expected HV reference), it is possible to indicate the most severe
continuous operating situation. If the highest capacitive output and highest voltage reference are selected for
continuous filter component ratings, higher costs can be expected than if the normal voltage reference line
[line AB in Figure 3(b)] is used and full output is not continuous.
One practice is to determine the rating of each STATCOM component from the application of two criteria:
a) the highest fundamental frequency stresses plus relevant (associated) harmonic stresses and b) the highest
harmonic stresses plus relevant (associated) fundamental frequency stresses [the latter of which will be lower
than in a)]. For both cases, the effects of background harmonics as well as STATCOM generated harmonics
need to be taken into account.
B.5.4.3 Effect of background harmonics
As mentioned before, in most systems it is impossible to identify discrete major harmonic current sources
that, finally, can be used for calculating additional stresses on the STATCOM system components. A possible
approach is to use harmonic voltages which are measured at the PCC over a sufficiently longer time to include
effects from working days, holidays, changes in generation pattern, system outages, etc. or other seasonable
effects. When such a measurement is performed, it is suggested to provide background harmonics for each
phase with amplitude and corresponding phase angle. Harmonics of order 2 to 21 may be analyzed. Such
harmonic voltages can be used behind an impedance to consider effects on harmonic stresses for the STATCOM
components. The maximum component stress can be found by searching for worst case resonance condition
of the system (refer to the impedance area example of Figure B.8) and STATCOM operating configuration.
Figure B.10 illustrates the procedure on a single line diagram.
Figure B.10—Equivalent diagram for filter component rating calculations (contribution from
VSC and background harmonics)
NOTE 1—Special consideration should be taken on the minimum resistance of the harmonic system impedance
representation; it should be a realistic value relevant to the harmonics under consideration. Refer to 2.6 and Appendix 2.2
of CIGRE technical brochure Special Aspects of AC Filter Design for HVDC Systems [B8].
NOTE 2—Simultaneous worst case resonance conditions for all harmonics are not realistic to assume for final component
rating.
NOTE 3—The values of system harmonic impedance and background distortion should be self-consistent, i.e., it should
be physically possible for them to occur simultaneously.
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B.5.4.4 Modeling of background harmonics
Background harmonics can be modeled as a voltage source or a current source. Further information is available
in IEC 62001-3 [B27].
B.5.4.4.1 Background harmonics modeled as voltage source
The magnitude of background harmonic voltage source for each harmonic can be taken from either actual
system measurements in various system operating conditions possibly with an allowance for future growth, or
from planning levels/compatibility levels. As discussed later, this method has the disadvantage that the effects
of resonance between the STATCOM and the system are neglected when the harmonic voltage sources are
connected directly.
B.5.4.4.1.1 Background harmonic voltage source connected directly
Figure B.11 shows a background harmonic voltage source directly connected to the STATCOM system POC.
The STATCOM system impedance is composed from the transformer impedance ( Z trans ) and the relevant MV
branches, which may be connected to the MV bus at different STATCOM system operating conditions ( Z sec ).
Inductive branches like TSR or MSR parallel connected to the STATCOM branches may only affect the
impedance at low frequencies. The current and voltage harmonics are calculated for each STATCOM system
component. The harmonic current into the STATCOM system, generated from background harmonics, is
calculated by Equation (B.4):
Figure B.11—Equivalent circuit of STATCOM system and a directly connected voltage

source
Vny _ ambient
I ny _ STATCOM _ System = (B.4)
Z STATCOM _ System
where
I ny _ STATCOM _ System is the harmonic current into the STATCOM system

Vny _ ambient is the background harmonic voltage of rank n
Z STATCOM _ System is the impedance of the STATCOM system at harmonic rank n
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The voltage of MV bus where the MV branches are connected will be calculated via Equation (B.5):
Z sec
Vsec = Vny _ ambient × (B.5)
Z STATCOM _ System
where
Vsec is the harmonic voltage on the MV bus

Z sec is the equivalent impedance of all branches connected to the MV bus for the
selected operating point
Z STATCOM _ System is the equivalent impedance of the STATCOM system as seen from the HV bus for
the selected operating point
And the corresponding current through each MV branch (1…n) in operation accordingly is calculated via
Equation (B.6):
Vsec
I MVbranch (1...k ) = (B.6)
Z MVbranch (1...k )
where
I MVbranch(1...k ) is the harmonic current in branch k of the STATCOM system

Z MVbranch(1...k ) is the impedance of branch k
B.5.4.4.1.2 Background harmonic voltage source behind a network impedance
Figure B.12 shows a background harmonic voltage source connected to the STATCOM system POC via a
network impedance.
Figure B.12—Equivalent circuit of a STATCOM system and a harmonic voltage source

behind a network impedance
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The harmonic voltage on the secondary side of the STATCOM system is calculated as follows in Equation
(B.7):
Z sec
Vsec = Vny _ ambient × (B.7)
Z net + Z STATCOM _ System
where

Z sec is the equivalent impedance of all branches connected to the MV bus for the
selected operating point
Z net is the equivalent network impedance at harmonic rank n
Z STATCOM _ System is the equivalent impedance of the STATCOM system (including transformer
reactance) as seen from the HV bus for the selected operating point and at the
frequency of interest
After calculating the harmonic voltage at the STATCOM HV bus and the voltage Vsec, the currents/voltages on
the STATCOM system MV branches (1…n) in operation are calculated by Equation (B.6):
Figure B.13—Equivalent circuit of STATCOM system and harmonic current source
B.5.4.4.2 Background harmonics modeled as current source
For some projects, harmonic filter rating calculations consider background harmonics modeled as a current
source. In order to use this information for filter ratings, the background harmonic model described in
Figure B.13 may be used. The left figure shows the model that is used to derive a current source for each
harmonic that gives a maximum harmonic voltage distortion at the point of connection equal to the specified
background source.
The derived current sources are then used in the right model shown in Figure B.13 to calculate the background
harmonic currents injected to the STATCOM together with the resulting component stresses (refer also to
Figure B.8). It should be noted that Z net is the harmonic network impedance sectors which have to be provided
in the specification.
Background levels in percentage of the system voltage may be taken from planning levels or from system
measurements.
B.5.4.5 Aspects of the different models
The user should be aware that the choice of background harmonic model may have an impact on STATCOM
system rating:
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— Using the model of Figure B.11 may result in non-realistic low STATCOM component stress because
the effect of the connected system is neglected.
— Using the model of Figure B.12 or Figure B.13 may result in unrealistically high STATCOM system
component stresses if proper damping, especially of the system components, is not considered. In
both cases proper damping is required. Here the frequency dependent resistances of transformers,
reactors, lines, and cables are important to establish the equivalent network impedance. It is suggested
to use Technical Brochure 553; CIGRE WG B4–47; Appendix 2.2 – [B8] and Electra (1996) no.167
WGCC02 [B51] to properly establish damping in the considered network components. In addition,
loads in the surrounding area of the PCC should be included in the analysis. However, if CIGRE sectors
are used for the harmonic analysis, it is not correct to carry out the harmonic impedance analysis for
the purpose of modifying the CIGRE sectors. Nevertheless, the CIGRE sectors (which are theoretical
approximation of harmonic network impedances) should be verified and compared to the proper
harmonic impedance analysis considering the relevant network components (such as transformers,
reactors, etc.) and their damping, as well as network loads if feasible.
B.5.4.6 Additional information
In all harmonic calculations, distinguish between harmonic performance and filter component rating, as
follows:
— Calculating harmonic performance (Dn, THD, TIF, IT, etc.) should be based on harmonic generation
at normal system voltage. Calculation of STATCOM system component ratings should consider
the whole system voltage operating range together with the corresponding STATCOM system’s
continuous operating range. Different ranges for system frequency and V2/V1, etc. should be used.
— For the THD, TIF, and IT calculation, a more simplistic approach could be taken by using a whole of
maximum harmonic currents covering the whole operating range or several simultaneous harmonics
currents at different operating points, assuming resonance conditions between STATCOM and system
at all harmonics is not realistic. Calculation of THD, TIF, and IT values could take the worst network
impedance of two individual harmonics that contribute the most to these indices. The other harmonics
could be neglected for THD, TIF, and IT calculation.
— Background harmonic voltages should be based on rated voltage.
— Calculating TIF and IT performance the weighting factor is important at higher harmonics.
— Tolerances are generally neglected in stress calculations from background harmonics when system
impedance effects are considered. In the case of using directly connected background harmonic
voltage at the POC, all STATCOM component and system frequency tolerances should be considered.
— The part of the 3rd harmonic contribution from background harmonics, which is considered to have
zero sequence character, is assumed to be trapped in the transformer delta (typically used) and will not
be considered for rating of the STATCOM components.
— It should be agreed between user and manufacturer whether it is permissible to assign the rated voltage
(Un) of capacitors up to 10% below Um because certain international standards require capacitors
to have up to a 10% prolonged overvoltage capability. However, the value of Un assessed from that
assumption has to be at least equal to the maximum fundamental frequency voltage on the capacitor
bank. If this is not the case, then the assigned Un should be the maximum fundamental frequency
voltage. This approach is based on the STATCOM system operating conditions where, in certain
operating ranges, maximum fundamental voltage and harmonic voltages may not occur at the same
time.
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B.5.4.7 Interharmonics
STATCOMs can produce interharmonics because the switching frequency is not synchronized to the
network frequency. Since no standard exists yet that defines how to consider interharmonics in the harmonic
performance study of a STATCOM or STATCOM system, no recommendation is given in this guide. However,
IEC technical report 61000–3-6 gives some information about the possible impact of interharmonics for
different interharmonic frequency ranges, as well as some guidance for conservative planning levels.
B.5.5 Telephone and radio interference (refer to 8.4)

B.5.5.1 Limits for telephone interference (refer to 8.4.1)
Although the harmonics produced by power-electronic switching are greatly reduced in magnitude as the
frequency increases, any harmonics in the audible band are a concern because they may couple into the
telephone system and cause interference. In general, the levels produced by a STATCOM are not significant.
A current standard for limiting the potential for telephone interference is the “C-message” weighting factor
curve established in IEEE Std 519 or other weighting factors in national standards of other countries.
TIFs are required in cases when telephone lines are running close by.
Where a current based criterion is required, the specification of system harmonic impedance, in particular
‘minimum resistance’ needs careful definition.
Typical values for TIF are in the range from 20 to 50 and 10 000 A to 30 000 A for the I × T product.
B.5.5.2 Limits for broadband interference (refer to 8.4.2)
The electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by substations and transmission lines is propagated by
radiation and conduction. The purposes of these general requirements are to limit the electromagnetic noises
likely to disturb the power line carrier protection schemes; to protect the band used in the aid to navigation (200
kHz to 415 kHz), the domestic broadcasting band, and other communication systems located in the frequency
range of 5 kHz and 30 MHz, under all conditions of short-time durations or continuous operation. There could
be also a need to protect control and protection equipment. The STATCOM design and layout should take
necessary precautionary measures to help ensure that there will be no misoperation, damage, or danger to any
equipment or system due to broadband interference and effects.
The potential for higher frequency emissions should be limited to avoid interference with any properly licensed
or authorized radio, television, microwave, or other equipment in service. Typical guidelines are given in this
annex. However, the user should refer to local standards to determine the specific limits acceptable for their
respective country. Calculations should be done at the project stage to find out what measures are required to
meet the limit of radio interference during all possible operating conditions.
The broadband interference includes:
a) Radio interference (RI): AM Band 150−1600 kHz; FM Band 88−108 MHz: Because of the very
fast switching action of a solid state converter, the potential for directly radiated interference from
the STATCOM system does exist. However, actual radio interference problems from STATCOM
installations have been extremely rare. Moreover, a utility type of STATCOM to which this guide
applies will usually be part of an HV substation that has some level of corona discharge, particularly
if the substation is a conventional air-insulated installation. Usually the RI produced by the corona
discharge from the HV equipment and bus will be greater than the RI produced by the STATCOM,
thereby masking the STATCOM. Nevertheless, it is prudent to include an RI and television interference
(TVI) limit in the STATCOM system specification, typically set between 50 µV/m and 100 µV/m at a
distance 500 m away from the STATCOM station perimeter.
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b) Power line carrier (PLC) 14−500 kHz where used and applicable frequency range: The STATCOM
system should incorporate the features necessary to limit the carrier frequency noise levels due to the
STATCOM system and related equipment to the following values: 30−100 kHz, −10 dbm decreasing
to −20db; 100−500 kHz, 20 dbm.
c) TVI 54−88 MHz: The STATCOM system components and their layout should be designed to avoid
discharge sources from the STATCOM system and related equipment that could cause TVI.
d) Microwave interference 10−108 GHz: The selection of STATCOM technology and the type test
reports of such technologies should be evaluated to determine if such designs could form a source
of noise and, if so, if the design needs any necessary mitigation so that the signal-to-noise ratio in the
voice frequency range on the microwave communication system is not affected.
e) Field testing and measurements for compliance with radio frequency and PLC emissions:
Measurements should be performed before construction and after commissioning to document actual
noise levels for the previous four types of communication and frequency bands. Based on these two
different measurements, STATCOM system contribution and compliance will be determined.
It is recommended that due to the banded nature of the measurements required for radiated interference several
instrumentation systems be configured to properly measure the frequencies of interest. Due to the significant
directional selectivity of the measurement systems at the frequencies above 450 MHz, a range of antennas will
be required. The following list is appropriate for meeting the requirements within the USA and Canada, which
specifies the maximum radiated level of 16 dB above 1 µV/m. Other standards may apply outside of the USA.
It is important to note that the measurement system and antenna selection will be frequency dependent.
— AM broadcast band (600−1700 kHz): Directional loop antenna

— Amateur radio bands (160 m, 80 m, 40 m, 20 m, and 6 m bands)/marine telephone: Directional loop/
log periodic antenna
— VHF television and FM radio bands: Log periodic antenna
— Operational fixed microwave or common carrier microwave bands: Frequency specific broadband
feed horns and 1 m parabolic antenna
— Cellular telephone and other land mobile service bands: Log periodic antenna
— UHF television: Log periodic antenna
In order to properly characterize the RFI measurements, a series of steps is recommended in the pre-
construction and final acceptance testing periods, as follows:
— Establish three baseline measure points, preferably on the utilities property or right of way, with a
semi-permanent marker.
— Take the measurements of interest in the bands noted here, before significant construction begins, from
each point including frequency scans across the existing substation installation (if the STATCOM is
being established to an existing substation). This set of baseline measurements should take particular
note of high emissions in frequency and direction from the reference sites identified here.
— Take a second set of measurements over a significant range of STATCOM operating points, after
construction is complete, from the same measurement locations as noted here.
Any significant high measurements should be noted and mitigation, if required, be completed, and any re-
measurements be taken and recorded in the commissioning record.
Power line carrier noise measurements should be made using commercially available spectrum analyzers.
Appropriate bandwidth and impedance termination will be made.
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Radio signal strength should be measured using instruments with average detectors. Radio noise measurement
should be in quasi-peak (QP) levels for AM band and peak levels for FM band. Measurements should include
at least three complete frequencies scanning at selected locations around the perimeter of the property line.
The ambient levels should include all radiated noise from the associated transmission line, structures, and
nearby equipment.
Radio noise levels should be measured with an instrument complying with ANSI C63.2 (1 by 160 ms charge
and discharge times, 9 kHz bandwidth). Measurements made with instruments having a bandwidth other than
9 kHz should be corrected to 9 kHz. Measurements may be made with instruments having QP charge and
discharge time constants of 1 and 600 ms and a bandwidth of 5 kHz, if those instruments comply with earlier
issues of ANSI C63.2. If such instruments are used, the readings should be corrected to a bandwidth of 9 kHz.
Television signal strength and noise measurements will be in accordance with IEEE Standard 430 over the
range of 30−1000 MHz. ANSI C63.2 standard defines the instruments to be used.
B.5.6 Audible noise (refer to 8.5)

Audible noise limits should be specified at various key locations both outside and inside the STATCOM
system control building. An example of possible measurement/specification locations is given in Table B.2.
Table B.2—Example of measurement locations for audible noise

1 Station fence/property line
2 Within pump equipment area
3 At a defined distance outside of compressor area enclosure(s)
4 At a defined distance outside of mechanical equipment areas
5 Maintenance workshop
6 Control rooms
7 Relay rooms
8 Other accessible rooms
Local noise ordinances and safety codes can be used to establish maximum allowable audible noise levels
for interior and exterior areas. Audible noise limits outside the STATCOM building typically apply at the
substation fence line. Inside the building, they apply at a specified distance (typically 3 m) from the emitting
source.
The STATCOM system specification should establish whether supplier, user, or a third party acoustic
consultant will be responsible for the measurement of audible noise levels. In addition to measurement
locations (see Table B.2), time of day, STATCOM output levels, instrumentation, and reporting format may be
identified.
Existing audible noise levels should be established at the identified locations prior to the construction of the
facilities and can be included as part of the specification to bid if available. It is recommended that both
pre-construction and post-energization audible noise measurements be performed by the same party using
identical instrumentation.
For installations where audible noise output of the STATCOM is strictly enforced and in cases where ambient
noise levels vary, such as in windy environments, the accuracy and repeatability of the acoustic measurements
may be critical in establishing compliance with specified values. Class 1/Type 1 sound level meters as specified
by IEC 61672 and ANSI S1.4 [B25], respectively, are recommended in these applications.
Guidance is provided in IEC 61973 [B30].
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B.5.7 Loss evaluation (refer to 8.6 and item c) of 11.1)

B.5.7.1 General information
Loss evaluation should include the complete STATCOM system, including all components, as well as different
parts or subsystems. As an example, the STATCOM system can be configured as multiple branches and/or
dual systems. Furthermore, the parts can be broken down into subsystems such as:
— Main stepdown or coupling transformer

— All VSC systems and components
— SVS systems and components
— Control and protection systems, including ancillary devices such as HMI, fault recorders, and SCADA
— Auxiliary supply systems
— Cooling systems
— Building ancillary services such as lighting, air conditioning, heating, and ventilation
Items that are considered irrelevant and can be excluded are low loss items such as busbars, cables, switchgear,
surge arresters, and measurement transducers [current transformers (CTs) and VTs on the main power circuit].
It is important to state clearly what is included. However, the auxiliary supplies needed to drive and operate the
devices and subsystems are to be included only if the load is continuous and not the short term load to operate
the device(s).
Each item can be identified separately to avoid duplication of loss calculations. Here it is important to
distinguish between auxiliary supply losses. For example, it is possible to have an ac and dc auxiliary supply
system. However, it is normal practice to feed the dc system from the ac supply. This has to be considered and
not added twice to the overall load losses. Furthermore, if the auxiliary supply is fed from the STATCOM’s own
HV connection and not from a separate source, it has to be considered correctly, including any intermediate
transformers.
If the design of the STATCOM system allows for dual or redundant systems, such as dual pumps or redundant
fans, it is recommended to exclude the load losses of the dual systems, if the dual system is not in service
during the normal operation of the STATCOM system. However, dual systems should be included if they are
required to be in service under the defined operating conditions. The same methodology can be applied for
HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning systems).
In the event of dual/redundant control and protection systems, it is recommended to include the losses of
both or all dual control systems. Similarly, for VSC valve levels, it is considered standard practice to have
redundant levels included in the VSC. Under normal operating conditions, these redundant levels are expected
to be in service and, therefore, this needs to be included as the worst case losses.
In order to compare different bids or designs, it is equally important to state the exact environmental conditions
as well as network electrical parameters to be considered for the calculation and/or determination of losses.
This allows for a defined benchmark platform.
The STATCOM system may, as noted here, consist of different branches or parts. This is particularly true for
Hybrid STATCOM systems. This may result in two completely different designs, still fulfilling the dynamic
requirements, but operationally not comparable. From a loss perspective, it may then also differ. In order
to achieve a benchmark loss determination, the loss evaluation should be based on the same operational
requirements.
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For example, if STATCOM system A uses a VSC branch and a TSC branch, there will be an overlap range in
the transition between the two devices or branches. The same output of the STATCOM system can be achieved
with different branches or parts in service. The losses could differ significantly between the two modes of
operation. The control system determines when and how long the STATCOM system may be working in such
a specific mode/operating point. If there is an active controller to detect this condition and to help minimize the
losses, then the operating mode with the lower losses can be considered for the loss determination. This will be
also applicable for STATCOM systems with filters, MSC, MSR, TSR, and TSC.
Depending on the STATCOM system main control objective a STATCOM system will typically operate in
various operating ranges depending on time. 100% time is the maximum operating time per year. Figure B.14
shows an example for a STATCOM system used for stability purposes and system voltage control.
Figure B.14—Example of a STATCOM system operating time in different operating ranges
Losses in each operating range should be averaged and evaluated according to the operating time, as shown in
the example of Table B.3.
Table B.3—Summary of losses for example illustrated in Figure B.14

Operating Operating Operating Operating Operating Total
Range 1 Range 2 Range 3 Range n–1 Range n operating
time
STATCOM A
100 … 5 5…5 5 … 50
Q STATCOM (%) —– —–
Cap Cap … Ind Ind
Cap/Ind
Operating time (%) 7.5 90 2.5 —– —– = 100%
STATCOM B
100 … 60 60 … 20 20 … 15 15 … 25 25 … 50
Q STATCOM (%)
Cap Cap Cap … Ind Ind Ind
Cap/Ind
Operating time (%) 10 20 55 10 5 = 100%
Table continues
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Table B.3—Summary of losses for example illustrated in Figure B.14 (continued)

Operating Operating Operating Operating Operating Total
Range 1 Range 2 Range 3 Range n–1 Range n operating
time
Q STATCOM (%) Range 1 Range 2 Range 3 Range n
—–
Cap/Ind Cap Cap Cap … Ind Ind
Pv Range (%) Pv1 Pv2 Pv3 Pvn —–
Operating time (%) T1 T2 T3 tn —– = 100%
The average losses of the STATCOM system can then be evaluated by Equation (B.9):
n
Pveval = ∑ Pvi ×ti (B.9)
i =1
where
Pveval is the average losses of the STATCOM system

Pvi is the average losses of the STATCOM system when operating in range i
ti is the percentage of the time that the STATCOM system operates in range i
i is the range number
n is the total number of operating ranges defined by the user
The cost of losses will be calculated as in Equation (B.10):
C = Pveval ×C1 (B.10)
where
C is the cost of losses in $

Pveval is the average losses of the STATCOM system in kW
C1 is the cost of losses in $/kW defined by the user
The factor C1 depends on the purchaser’s experience about the cost of losses in his system. The factor C1 can
include loss cost figures for one year of operation or can be a value that is capitalized over the lifetime of the
STATCOM system.
The losses of a STATCOM system are an important consideration because they can form a major part of the
operating cost. This cost should be evaluated against the capital cost of the equipment. Loss evaluation has an
important influence on the STATCOM system design. The evaluation procedure has three steps.
a) The user should define the expected normal operating ranges of the compensator as shown in Table B.3,
and the capitalized cost of losses (cost per kilowatt). A number of such operating ranges will exist
depending on the control purpose of the STATCOM system installation. The capitalized cost of losses
for each operating range should be weighted according to the percentage of time that the STATCOM
system is expected to operate the averaged output in this range. It should be noted that such weights
will be different from those used in a system transformer loss evaluation because STATCOM system
output is not likely to be proportional to load current.
b) Each bidder calculates and quotes the kilowatt losses in each operating range. The losses will include
the electrical power used for pumps, fans, auxiliaries, etc. Multiplying each calculated loss by the
specified cost per kilowatt sums up to the total evaluated cost of losses, which will be added to the
equipment price to compare bids. In some instances, the total evaluated cost of losses has had the same
order of magnitude as the equipment price. The bidder will normally choose a design that reduces the
total of the equipment cost and the evaluated cost of losses.
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c) During project construction, loss measurements are made at factory testing of the STATCOM system
components and for auxiliary power requirements at site during commissioning. The bid calculations
have to be reworked on that loss measurement. Adjustments to the contract price may be made to
reflect a recalculated loss different from that quoted in the bid.
It is widely agreed that measurement of the actual losses of an operating STATCOM system is not practical.
Not only are there difficulties in measuring a small quantity in relation to main circuit currents, but measuring
heat loss at nominal ambient temperature, harmonic impedance, etc., and finding suitable steady operating
conditions either at factory or at site present difficulties. Calculation is, therefore, necessary. Annex C is a
recommended procedure to calculate valve losses. For all other STATCOM system components the loss
measurements from factory tests and site measurement can be used.
All losses should be determined to a specific condition, e.g., temperature and network operating conditions that
should include the system voltage, reference setting, and slope of the STATCOM system. At each operating
point all elements should be considered in the loss calculation. Losses caused by the flow of harmonic currents
in the filter components should be excluded from this calculation because they represent a small percentage of
the total.
B.5.7.2 VSC losses (refer to 8.6.2.1)
Refer to Annex C.
B.5.7.3 Thyristor valve losses (refer to 8.6.2.2)
Thyristor valve losses are made up from thyristor conduction and switching losses, snubber circuit and voltage
divider, and, if used, current limiting reactor losses. If the STATCOM system includes thyristor valves (e.g.,
TSC and/or TSR), the losses of these should be calculated according to IEEE Std 1031.
B.5.7.4 Transformer losses (refer to 8.6.3)
This procedure ignores the losses in a transformer due to harmonic currents (although the transformer design
should take them into account). Some STATCOM system designs include a filter on the same busbar, and the
filter reduces the harmonic current in the transformer. In other cases, users may wish to specify a calculation of
losses due to harmonic currents such as used in HVDC convertors (refer to Forrest [B10] and IEEE Std 1158™
[B37].
The loss calculation reflects test measurements that can be used to verify it. The total loss at full load is the sum
of core, stray, and copper losses. The core losses vary according to the operating voltage of the transformer at
the output in question. As an approximation, the nominal-voltage value may be used throughout. The copper
loss and stray loss together are calculated from the fundamental current and measured resistance at that
frequency, adjusted for conductor temperature. Stray loss is thus modeled by a resistance. The specification
requires an estimate of these losses to be used in the evaluation procedure described here and to be verified
later from factory tests.
B.5.7.5 Reactor losses (refer to 8.6.4)
The reactor losses are calculated from the rms fundamental phase current I as follows in Equation (B.11):
Preac = 3× Rreac × I 2 (B.11)
where
Preac is the losses in the reactor in watts
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Rreac is the fundamental frequency resistance. The reactor resistance values should be verified
from the test report for the reactors. Tests of quality factor, Q, should be made with as many
connections, clamps, shields, etc., as possible in position
I is the fundamental phase current of the reactor for the specified operating point
This calculation applies to STATCOM phase reactors, TSC and filter reactors, MSRs, and TSR reactors, if
used.
B.5.7.6 Capacitor bank losses (TSC, MSC, and filters) (refer to 8.6.5)
In the test reports for each capacitor unit, the dissipation factors (tan delta) are given. The values received
after the thermal stability test should be used. An average value for all capacitor units is used to calculate the
capacitor bank losses. The formula used is as follows in Equation (B.12):
Pcap = Qcap × DF (B.12)
where
Pcap is the losses in the capacitor

Qcap is the capacitor kvar at relevant operating condition
DF is the capacitor dissipation factor at fundamental frequency, which should include the losses
in capacitor fuses
B.5.7.7 Resistor losses (refer to 8.6.6)
Resistors are used in high pass (HP), high frequency blocking (HFBF), double- and triple-tuned filters, as well
as in MSCDDN applications. Resistor losses may be calculated using (B.13).
Pres = 3× Rres × I 2 (B.13)
where
Pres is the total losses in the resistor

Rres is the resistor resistance, and
I is the fundamental rms phase current through the resistor
Equation (B.13) only takes into account the fundamental rms phase current through the resistor. However, for
the rating of the resistor, harmonic stresses should also be included.
B.5.7.8 Auxiliary system power losses (refer to 8.6.7)
The power used by the auxiliary systems for pumps, fans, and building cooling and heating systems together
with the power needed by the converter is deduced for each specified condition of the ambient temperature and
reactive power flow. Nominal auxiliary supply voltage is assumed.
B.5.7.9 Loss comparison for symmetrical and unsymmetrical STATCOM/Hybrid STATCOM

output
Performing a qualitative comparison of the fundamental frequency losses generated by a VSC only STATCOM
and a similarly sized STATCOM hybrid, the hybrid shows lower losses. In particular, this is the case at the
extreme operating points. In addition, hybrid losses are also usually somewhat lower close to zero output due
to the use of a smaller VSC compared to the VSC only unit. Note that the transformer no load losses are an
integral part of the idle or zero output STATCOM losses.
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In comparison to the Vernier controlled classical SVC, both STATCOM types have considerably lower losses
around zero output. This is primarily due to the lack of harmonic filters in the STATCOM and STATCOM
hybrid units. This said, it should be noted that this is valid for MMC or chainlink type STATCOMs. There are
other type of VSC designs, e.g., three level NPC and two level VSCs that require substantial harmonic filtering
and, therefore, show similar behavior concerning losses as comparable SVCs at zero output.
Figure B.15 and Figure B.16 show examples of loss comparison between the pure STATCOM and Hybrid
STATCOM.
Figure B.15—Loss comparison between STATCOM and Hybrid STATCOM symmetrical

output
Figure B.16—Loss comparison between STATCOM and Hybrid STATCOM unsymmetrical

output
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B.5.8 STATCOM system availability and reliability (refer to 8.7)

B.5.8.1 Definitions (refer to 8.7.1)
Alternative definitions are possible. Travel time (within a reasonable maximum) can be deducted from outage
time.
B.5.8.2 Required availability and reliability (refer to 8.7.2)
An important aspect when specifying FACTS devices such as STATCOM systems is the failure rate of
components and subsystems. Component failure rate relates directly to the overall availability and reliability
of the device, where both properties represent an integral part of device performance requirements.
Component failure rates are based on actual or estimated statistics, used to evaluate the reliability, availability,
and maintenance requirements of the device, commonly referred to as RAM requirements. The concepts,
definitions, and methods concerning RAM are defined in IEEE Std 493™ (“IEEE Gold Book”) [B35]. The
two properties necessary to specify for any given FACTS project are the reliability and the availability
requirements.
Availability is a measure of the amount of time the device is in operation, performing as required in relation to
the time out of service. The former is referred to as the device uptime whereas the latter is the down time, with
the device out of operation due to failure or scheduled maintenance. Availability is specified as the percentage
uptime required, and drives the supply of accessible spare components and device maintainability. To have
critical spares readily available helps to minimize down time, while maintainability driven aspects concerns
specific subsystems, e.g., cooling system, HVAC, etc. and redundant equipment where maintenance can be
performed without taking the STATCOM system offline.
Reliability is the property with which the device readiness to operate and perform as expected whenever called
for is measured. Properties like long time between failures and long time between maintenance typically
means the device is reliable. The most straightforward way to quantify reliability for a FACTS device is
by the number of forced outages the unit has over a defined duration of operation, e.g., one calendar year.
Reliability requirements drive the design concerning the degree of redundancy applied. For the STATCOM
this typically is realized by applying redundant converter submodules, control systems, cooling pumps, relay
protection, etc. The common denominator for reliability enhancing measures, is the ability to avoid having to
take the STATCOM offline at the occurrence of an internal fault, e.g., the ability to seamlessly switch from
one cooling pump to the other or one control system to the other without disrupting operation. The concept of
semiconductor redundancy differs between MMC-based STATCOMs and the thyristor-based SVC in the way
redundancy is applied. This difference is explained by the way the semiconductors are arranged for the two
technologies, where thyristor valves have additional redundant thyristors in series whereas the MMC have
redundant converter submodules in series.
Equipment that is available to activate at the event of a failure, but requires the STATCOM to come offline
before operation can commence, helps to minimize down time but does not prevent the outage. This type of
equipment will increase availability, but does not provide higher reliability. Examples of such cold standby
equipment are spare transformers, disconnected spare filter branches, etc. From a reliability perspective this is
no different from the spare semiconductor stored on a shelf in the control building storage room.
Reliability and availability requirements have to be specified and discussed in combination. Components
with high failure rate primarily impact on reliability by tripping the device. If replacement spares are readily
available and easy to apply, availability does not necessarily suffer a great deal of impact. The device may still
have an acceptable availability, although suffering from frequently tripping offline. The reliability concept is
therefore important even if a very high availability percentage is specified.
Bearing in mind that the concept of RAM is built on statistical analysis, some aspects inevitably fall
outside the specification if not specifically addressed. Many components have inherently low failure rates
and, consequently, do not stand out in the availability calculations. Some of these are, however, long lead
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time components and have to be treated with this in mind. Power transformers represent one such type of
component, which is frequently applied with an installed spare. Reactors may also be a relatively long lead
time component.
In terms of specifying FACTS devices, system reliability and availability requirements are essential quantities
that ultimately determine the total system failure rate. It is important that the specifying entity (utility user)
should not dictate failure rate requirements at the subsystem or individual component level. The approach will
differ between manufacturers, depending on the component or subsystem in question in terms of criticality
to the overall reliability performance. STATCOM and SVC technology can be treated equally in this respect.
RAM calculations as outlined in IEEE Std 493 [B35] could be requested to demonstrate how the guaranteed
reliability and availability of the system will be achieved considering failure rates of the different subsystems
and components. Spare parts and redundancy required to meet the RAM guarantees should be clearly
identified. Scheduled outage time should be backed up by a preliminary maintenance plan provided in the bid.
Practically at system level, 98% total uptime (including forced and scheduled outages) and no more than
three forced outages per year can be achieved in terms of availability and reliability without any extraordinary
design measures. What is required has to be evaluated for the specific case and application, but going far
beyond these numbers tend to impact cost.
B.6 Main components—required functions and features (refer to Clause 9)

B.6.1 General
In a technical specification, the subclauses concerned with VSC switching devices and other main components
are intended to be functional and general, i.e., not prescribing the precise form, rating, or quantity of the
components, but allowing the bidder freedom to propose an optimum solution. Such an approach should
encourage innovation and the most cost-effective solution within the user's requirements, without
compromising the required reliability or established standards of control, protection, ease of maintenance, etc.
B.6.2 Switching devices (refer to 9.2)

B.6.2.1 Switching devices protection (refer to 9.2.5)
B.6.2.1.1 VSC submodules
The bidder may be asked to provide a data sheet of ratings of offered devices. Design of the VSC valves should
take into account the worst overvoltage conditions specified by OVRT requirement. The switching devices
should be protected against overvoltages exceeding this requirement by appropriate strategies.
B.6.2.1.2 Thyristor valves
The individual emergency firing protection of TSR valves can be coordinated with the valve surge arrester. If
so, the latter should operate first.
Light-triggered thyristors (LTTs) and electrically triggered thyristors (ETT) should have built-in overvoltage
protection, or the bidder should explain how the consequences of a faulted light source or light guide are
handled.
B.6.2.2 Startup and energization of the STATCOM system (refer to 9.2.7)
The STATCOM has internal capacitors that require a charge to allow full functionality and performance of the
VSC. At the startup of the STATCOM system, the capacitors are discharged. During the energization sequence
of the STATCOM, there are a few options to be considered, as follows:
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a) The STATCOM charges the capacitors from ground level using available auxiliary power (either ac or
dc) and via isolation transformers or equivalent technology. This is a relative slow process but it also
has the least impact on the system voltage when the STATCOM is connected to the main power grid.
b) The STATCOM charges the capacitors from the main power grid via resistor current limiting devices
operated in series to the main connection circuits. Once the desired charging voltages are reached, the
current limitation circuits are removed and the energization sequence can commence.
c) The STATCOM is directly connected to the main grid with the internal VSC capacitors totally
discharged. For this, the impact on the system voltage will be the largest dip. The control system will
then allow rapid charging of the capacitors and activate the main voltage control functions as soon as
the minimum charge level is reached.
In almost all cases where the capacitors are pre-charged, the main energization has to take place in a reasonably
short time to avoid discharging of the capacitors. With the pre-charging method, the impact on the system
voltage is reduced.
The bidders should, therefore, provide information of the start-up and energization technology and sequence
as this is manufacturer and STATCOM technology dependent. The availability of auxiliary power during the
start-up is also of importance and, therefore, also the ability or need for the STATCOM to start-up automatically
with no ac auxiliary power available. This functionality is not always needed and may lead to complicated
designs.
B.6.2.3 LVRT of the STATCOM system (refer to 9.2.8)
The STATCOM must maintain the charge on the internal capacitors in the VSC to allow effective operation
of the whole device. If the capacitors are allowed to discharge completely, the STATCOM loses its ability
to generate reactive power. It is, therefore, critical to understand the exact behavior of the STATCOM
during LVRT. If the duration is short, the impact is minimal, but for extended periods of LV the output of
the STATCOM may either be blocked or tripped. It is, therefore, important to provide sufficient details of
the network conditions that the STATCOM is expected to remain connected and/or provide reactive power
support during the LVRT. There are technology limitations to be considered. The bidders are to provide their
control strategies for LVRT, as well as details on the guaranteed minimum output of the STATCOM during
these LVRT conditions.
B.6.3 VSC and thyristor valves cooling system (refer to 9.3)

B.6.3.1 General overview
The purpose of the cooling system is to remove the heat produced by the VSC and thyristor valves and to
eject it to the environment. Generally, two types of cooling systems are possible: water cooled or air cooled.
In either case, the cooling system should be completely furnished with all necessary interconnecting piping,
ductwork, circulating pumps, blowers, heaters, make-up reservoirs, heat exchangers, filters, water treatment
plant (if required), instrumentation, automatic controls, alarms, control power systems, and other necessary
equipment.
B.6.3.2 Liquid cooling (if applicable) (refer to 9.3.1)
The heat transfer from the closed liquid system to the ambient air should take place in a water-to-air or water-
to-water heat exchanger as follows:
a) One pump should normally operate and a redundant pump should be standing by. If a pump failure
occurs, the second pump should automatically switch in without shutting down the equipment. The
pump should change over automatically every month or so to cycle the second pump. A set of alarms
should be displayed at the appropriate local and remote control cabinets to alert the operator that a
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pump problem exists. The cooling system should be constructed to permit work on a defective pump
unit without shutting down the STATCOM system.
b) The purification system should be designed to maintain the resistivity of the water above 1 MΩ × cm.
A resistivity transducer located in the outgoing water from the deionizer should detect the depletion
of the material. The second purifying loop will continue to operate in the presence of a primary-loop
alarm until its deionizer is depleted.
c) If water-water exchangers are used, the secondary water that is passed through to remove heat should
be suitably treated for disposal into the environment. Filters and deionizer material should be designed
to allow replacements in a relatively short time without shutting down of the cooling unit. (Normal
replacement should not be required more than once every 12 months.)
B.6.3.3 Air cooling (if applicable) (refer to 9.3.2)
Either a non-recirculating (i.e., once through) or a recirculating air system may be provided, depending on the
requirement of the device selected by the supplier and on specific site conditions. A once-through air system
is one in which outside air is drawn through a filter and then through the device, and the heated air is then
exhausted to the outside. A recirculated air system is one in which the air is recirculated within the STATCOM
system building, and the heated air is cooled with a heat exchanger.
Required design functions and features include the following:
a) Dual blowers with one blower normally operating and the second standing by. If a blower failure
occurs, the second blower should automatically switch in without shutting down the equipment and an
alarm should be displayed at the control cabinets to alert the operator that a blower problem exists. The
cooling system should be constructed to permit work on the defective unit without shutting down the
system.
b) Air filtering system (non-recirculated systems). A warning alarm should register at the control cabinet
when filter replacement is needed. The filter should be designed so that replacement can take place
without outage of the STATCOM system, and under normal conditions should not be required more
than once every six months.
c) Monitoring. Sufficient gauges and indicators should indicate the status of any part of the unit for both
normal operations and maintenance.
B.6.4 Control equipment and operator interface (refer to 9.4)

Overall accuracy of the controlled variables can typically be ±1% for voltage and ±5% for current.
The primary purpose of the control of the STATCOM system is to control system voltage in response to
measured system variables, auxiliary inputs for supplementary control, or operator inputs. It is recommended
that the voltage and current measurements are included in the STATCOM system scope of supply in order to
help ensure that they are compatible for the required response of controls.
STATCOM system control contains the following:
a) Alternative modes of operation, as required, including a manual mode for site testing and emergency
shutdown by operator
b) Voltage, current, and reactive power measurement
c) VSC control by generating of the appropriate gating pulses to the switching devices
d) Orderly start-up and shutdown sequencing
e) Monitoring and protecting the control itself in progress and the components it controls
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The controls may also contain one or more of the following:
f) Automatic return to manual mode of operation at the most recent voltage setting on the loss of input
voltage measurement signal.
g) Automatic voltage control, operative during start-up to prevent unnecessary switching of the reactive
elements.
h) Self-check facility that operates equipment to verify its correct operation at regular intervals.
i) Supplementary control modules for damping and var control.
j) Control system damping with gain supervisor and gain optimizer. On gain supervision, details should
be given especially on the onset of instability. The criteria for detection of instability are:
1) Frequency range of the oscillation
2) Amplitude of the oscillation
3) Number of consecutive oscillations above an adjustable threshold
This function should also include an adjustable emergency gain.
The user should indicate the type of operator interface that is required, such as:
— Computer-screen mimic
— Mosaic panel (being less used)
— Additional to an existing substation’s controls
The choice of interface will be determined by whether maintenance staff is present at site continuously and by
the expected location of staff for normal operation and commissioning.
The different level of permission that it requires (operator, maintenance, etc.) and the minimum amount of
information that should be displayed should be specified.
Possible requirements of control system construction are as follows:
— General construction. The control system components should be mounted in free-standing, indoor,
metal-clad cabinets with appropriate seismic rating, where necessary.
— Operating environment. Control equipment should be designed to operate properly at the expected
maximum allowable ambient indoor air temperature of ___ °C. Supplemental cooling may be provided.
— Circuitry. Printed circuit cards should have built-in test points and indicating lights to facilitate test-
ing and maintenance or, if microprocessor-based, should have some form of self-checking and fault
diagnosis, to be described by the bidder.
— Interference tests. The controls should be tested to operate in the environment of ac substations, and
suitable SWC tests (refer to IEEE Std C37.90.1) should be carried out or proof of previous testing
provided.
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B.6.5 Monitoring and protection (refer to 9.5)

B.6.5.1 Protection (refer to 9.5.2)
B.6.5.1.1 General overview of STATCOM system protection
Components of the STATCOM system can be damaged if they are subjected to constraints that exceed
their design limits. Usually, the technical specification will describe the normal operating conditions to be
considered for the design (refer to Clause 7), and all components will be dimensioned so that their limits are
not exceeded for these conditions (steady state operation). However, some extraordinary events may lead to
those limits being exceeded:
— Severe network disturbance

— Control malfunction
— STATCOM system component failure
— Extraordinay environmental conditions
Protections have to be provided to take appropriate actions if the STATCOM system components are at risk.
The protective actions required depend on what part of the STATCOM system is affected by the fault or
overload condition, and on the nature of the fault. In some cases, a temporary blocking of the firing or other
control action is sufficient (e.g., control malfunction), but in others the main circuit breaker will need to be
tripped to isolate the faulty equipment (e.g., fault in the STATCOM system).
Typically, the protection of a STATCOM system will be divided in different protection zones. Figure B.17
shows an example of protection zones for a STATCOM system comprising a VSC, a TSC branch, a TSR
branch, and a fixed filter. Some protective functions, particularly for the VSC and for TSC and TSR valves, are
typically realized within the control system of the STATCOM system.
Figure B.17—Example of STATCOM system protection zones
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B.6.5.1.2 VSC (STATCOM) protection
The VSC part of the STATCOM system, i.e., the STATCOM, generally has the following circuit elements:
— Switching devices
— DC bus (if applicable)
— DC capacitors
— Ground connection
The switching devices have to be protected against excessive currents that can occur during faults. The currents
flowing through the switching devices are usually defined by the currents ordered at the ac point of connection
(POC). The switching devices are rated to withstand a short term current at which they can turn on safely and
an overload defined by current magnitude and duration. If these characteristics are exceeded, protection action
is required.
Switching devices also have to block when their conduction is not required by the controller. Upon blocking,
they have to be able to withstand the voltage appearing between their terminals. This voltage will usually be
defined by the dc capacitor voltage. Excessive voltage at turn-off can cause failure of the switching devices.
To address these issues, the following protections are minimally required:
a) Instantaneous overcurrent protection. This protection will detect if the instantaneous current exceeds
the level allowing safe operation of the switching devices and initiate a very fast protective action
(e.g., limit current using a control strategy, turn off valves).
b) Overload protection. Overload currents of durations longer than the specified capacity of the switching
devices can eventually damage the switching devices. When the overload capacity of the switching
devices is exceeded, the protection should take protective action (e.g., open main circuit breaker, limit
current using control strategy).
c) DC overvoltage protection. The dc bus protection will help ensure that the voltage at turn off of the
switching devices remains within safe limits. The voltage on the dc bus can rise very rapidly during
some events. In order to avoid exceeding the overvoltage capability of the equipment, the dc bus
requires an overvoltage protection. This protection detects if the voltage of the dc bus rises above a
certain level, and takes protective action (e.g., turn off of the switching devices, voltage reduction by a
control action).
d) Ground fault protection. Often, the STATCOM is floating because it is connected to the ac network
through transformer with a delta secondary. Therefore, a ground connection is realized in the VSC
circuit through a resistor. The value of this resistor is chosen to help minimize the current that will
flow through the VSC components during a ground fault in the VSC. The current flowing through the
ground connection indicates a ground fault. Protective action can then be initiated to eliminate the
fault.
B.6.5.1.3 Other protections of the STATCOM system
In addition to the protective features provided as part of the converter control, an independent protection
system may be provided to protect the compensator components against all abnormal operating conditions
that may occur.
Table B.4 shows a list of protections that can be required for the different parts of a STATCOM system.
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Table B.4—Overview of recommended STATCOM system protection methods

Protection zone Protection Protection function Notes
device
Transformer 87 Differential
50/51 Overcurrent
63/49/71 Gas pressure/temperature/
low-level oil
50N/51N Ground overcurrent
MV bus 87 Differential It is recommended to include
this protection within the
transformer differential zone
59 Overvoltage
59N Residual overvoltage Ground fault
50N/51N Ground overcurrent Only applicable with a
grounding transformer
VSC 87 Differential Recommended when classic CTs are
used. Alternative is to use duplicate
overcurrent protection and converter
blocking at high current in VSC leg.
50/51 Overcurrent Branch fault
49 Thermal overload Phase reactor overload
TSC 87 Differential
50/51 Overcurrent Branch fault
60C Unbalance Capacitor unbalance
59C Peak overvoltage Capacitor overvoltage using
current measurement
TSR 87 Differential
50/51 Overcurrent
49 Thermal overload Reactor thermal overload
Filters 50/51 Overcurrent/Differential Differential typically requires
(see NOTE) a complicated bus arrangement
and is not recommended
60C Unbalance Detect failed cans via cross connection
59C Peak overvoltage Capacitor overvoltage using
current measurement
Cooling Temperature Alarm and trip
Flow Alarm and trip
Resistivity/Conductivity Alarm and trip
Leakage Loss of fluid
Transfer failure or power loss
NOTE 1—If filters are an integrated, small HP filters for the STATCOM converter, it is recommended to increase
component design margins rather than implement relay protection and required CTs.
NOTE 2—For further information, please refer to IEEE P1032 D19.2 (January 2019) [B44]
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B.6.5.2 Monitoring (refer to 9.5.1)
The list of alarms provided in 9.5.1 is a minimum. If required by the user, additional alarms such as excessive
harmonics can be provided.
In addition to the monitoring circuits described in 9.5.1, all STATCOM systems should be equipped with a
digital fault recorder (DFR) and a sequence of events recorder (SER). DFRs and SERs are essential to allow
the user to analyze events occurring in the STATCOM system. All signals, analog and digital, required to
perform in depth analysis of events should be recorded. For that purpose, DFRs and SERs should be time
synchronized, normally with a precision of 1 ms. All recorded signals should be time-stamped according to the
user’s requirements.
The DFR and SER can be provided either by the manufacturer of the STATCOM system or by the user. This
should be made clear in the specification, as well as the list of signals to be recorded or provided to the user for
the purpose of DFR or SER recording.
Table B.5 provides a list of the analog signals that are suggested to be recorded by the DFR. Table B.6 provides
a list of the digital signals that are suggested to be recorded either by the DFR or SER. These lists should be
adapted by the user according to the specific needs of each STATCOM system project.
Table B.5—Suggested list of analog signals to be supervised by DFR

Equipment Description of signal Unit
Controller Reference voltage pu
Setpoints (Y or Q or other, depending on possible control modes)
Order from regulator (B or I or Q) pu
Voltage measurement used by the controller pu
Gain (if gain optimization or reduction is possible)
STATCOM system HV voltage – phase A, B, C (rms, phase-to-ground) V or kV

MV voltage – phase A, B, C (rms, phase-to-ground) V or kV
HV current – phase A, B, C A
MV current – phase A, B, C A
Phase currents of each branch (either in delta or phase) A
STATCOM system total reactive power Mvar
STATCOM system reactive power per phase Mvar
Transformer neutral current (if GIC can be an issue) A
NOTE—Single-phase values should be recorded separately.
Table B.6—Suggested list of digital signals to be supervised by SER

Equipment| Description of signal
Controller All control faults
The status signal of all control functions that can limit or modify
the STATCOM system output (e.g., at end of dynamic range,
external shunt device control enabled/disabled)
STATCOM system status (e.g., In service, Emergency, Trip, degraded)
All protections (alarms and trips)
Table continues
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Table B.6—Suggested list of digital signals to be supervised by SER (continued)

Equipment| Description of signal
Main circuit breaker State (closed/open) of each phase if applicable
Pole disagreement
Breaker failure
All protections (alarms and trips) (e.g., low pressure)
Transformer All protections (alarms and trips)
STATCOM system branches All protections (alarms and trips)
Auxiliary power All protections (alarms and trips)
Cooling system All protections (alarms and trips)
NOTE 1—All trip signals should be recorded individually. For protections that have an alarm level and a trip level, the
two should be recorded separately.
NOTE 2—If required by the user, some of these signals can also be recorded by the DFR.
B.6.6 Reactors (refer to 9.6)

The purpose of the phase reactors is to limit the rate of change of current in the VSC switching devices.
There is considerable debate regarding the acceptable level of magnetic fields that will not cause adverse
effects on personnel. The present recommendation by the National Radiological Protection Board (of the UK)
is that personnel access should be avoided where fields exceed 1.8 mT. The user should take into account
developments in public knowledge of the effects and any relevant legislation.
Design requirements for reactors should include the following:
— Each phase reactor may be divided into two reactors, one on each side of the converter valve to limit
short-circuit currents resulting when one reactor is shorted or a ground fault occurs.
— The user may attach a standard specification.
— Supporting structural steel work, including foundations, and fences should be designed to help
minimize currents induced by the magnetic fields of the reactor.
— The purpose of the filter reactors (if required) is to tune the capacitor banks to provide the necessary
reduction of harmonics. Requirements of 9.6 and B.6.6 apply to TSC reactors also, if used.
B.6.7 Capacitor banks, refer to 9.7 of main text

The purpose of the capacitor bank(s) is to provide the required leading var supply and also to provide sufficient
reduction of harmonic voltages and currents that may be generated by the STATCOM system. The banks (e.g.,
shunt capacitors and filter banks) should be designed to avoid resonance with the ac power system regardless
of system configuration. Shunt capacitor banks may include equipment or methods for limitation of inrush
current.
B.6.8 Power transformers (refer to 9.8)

The purpose of the step-down power transformer (where applicable) is to couple the STATCOM components
to the HV transmission system. Some STATCOMs may not require step-up transformers because a connection
point at a suitable voltage (not usually above 36 kV) exists.
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The power transformer is a standard transformer. The design of the transformer should be either three single-
phase or one three-phase. Detailed transformer specifications may be included as an attachment.
Noise, core losses, and harmonic currents increase as the flux level in the transformer core approaches its
saturation value.
The saturation flux density is the intersection of the flux density axis and the asymptote of the flux-current
characteristic in the saturated region (having a slope equal to the air core reactance). As a general rule, the
saturation flux density of the transformer should be at least 5% above the expected highest operating flux
density to take account of frequency variation and other effects. The pattern of operation may make high flux
density rare, and the user may define some operating condition other than maximum secondary voltage at
which this margin should be satisfied.
The maximum flux density depends on the leakage reactance of the transformer. For example, in a case
considering a maximum capacitive output of 150 Mvar at 1.1 per unit system voltage and 1.0 per unit current
and assuming a 15% leakage reactance (based on 150 MVA) on the primary side, the minimum voltage at
which the transformer saturates is calculated as follows:
1.05×(1.1 + 0.15×1.0) = 1.3125
B.6.9 Grounding and disconnect switches (refer to 9.9)

The STATCOM system is made up of several major components. At a minimum, the STATCOM system
should have a means of being visibly disconnected and grounded from the power system for maintenance
or repair. A manual disconnect switch or a removable, metal-clad circuit breaker can provide this function.
Grounding devices or provisions for grounding should be provided.
Each of the following major components may be visibly disconnected (e.g., by a switch or a removable link)
and grounded, depending on the availability requirements and whether the policy is to maintain a component
of the STATCOM system while the other components continue to operate: TSR, TSC, MSR, MSC, and filter
banks.
Tests should be specified in accordance with the latest revision of IEEE or IEC standards for disconnect
switches.
B.6.10 Auxiliary power supplies (refer to 9.10)

The user may modify the requirements if an existing power supply is available at site and adequate for the
STATCOM system.
Also refer to Annex F for more information on different auxiliary power supplies.
B.7 Spares (refer to Clause 10)

A number of approaches to spares management exist, and the choice of a particular strategy for a given
project is a matter of engineering judgment and part of the overall STATCOM system planning, design, and
specification. The main considerations are as follows:
a) The criticality of the STATCOM system to the overall transmission system. Clearly a STATCOM
system that is essential to a major portion of the transmission grid cannot be allowed to be out of
service for lack of parts. Therefore, a generous allotment of spare parts should be provided.
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b) The criticality of each component in the STATCOM system. The different components to the operation
of the STATCOM vary in importance:
1) Category A. Due to economic constraints, some costly components may not have a spare
available. Furthermore, such equipment may have long lead times if a replacement were to be
needed. In some cases, it may be prudent to provide a spare despite the cost. (Examples are step-
down transformers, shunt reactors, and filters.) Another approach, in the case of a transformer,
would be to select the voltage ratio to be the same as that already in use elsewhere on the utility
system, where a spare transformer may be available. Another approach is to use single-phase
transformers with one spare.
2) Category B. Operation with a major element out of service is often possible.
3) Category C. Some STATCOM system components are usually provided with back-up devices or
equipment, so that the first failure will not cause a STATCOM system outage. These “in-place
spares” should be considered when deciding on the overall spare parts strategy. (Examples are
redundant devices, back-up pumps, and redundant coolers.)
4) Category D. The failure of some components will not produce an immediate STATCOM system
outage. Thus, it may be reasonable to limit the spares of these components, if replacements can
be obtained quickly. (Examples are building service equipment, fault recording equipment, and
supervisory equipment.)
The strategy for some STATCOM system installations may call for an on-site spare for Category
A parts and an on-site spare for all Category B or C parts that are not immediately available from
other sources. Other strategies may omit spares for all categories for economic reasons. Any parts
that are not readily available through normal commercial channels, or whose manufacture is
likely to be discontinued during the life of the STATCOM system, should be included in the
spares inventory.
c) The likelihood of failure for each component. Today, the failure rates of most electrical components
are known, at least approximately. Thus, it is possible to make a quantitative judgment of the likelihood
that a particular device will need to be replaced.
d) The availability of a spare device through normal channels. For example, many components in a
STATCOM system have other uses as well, so they are available commercially or may even be kept
in a central warehouse by the user. If so, there is less need to provide spares specific to the STATCOM
system.
e) The uniqueness of the spare devices. The spare devices that are unique to the STATCOM system
are best stored on site. Principally this strategy refers to components for the devices and STATCOM
system controls. Storage on site helps ensure that the devices will be immediately at hand when
needed, without the delay needed to draw them from a central stocking area. Therefore, a suitable
storage area should be included.
B.8 Engineering studies (refer to Clause 11)

Typically load flow, stability, and voltage control studies including, where necessary, power oscillation
damping studies, are done by the user as part of preparing the specification for the transmission system of
concern. Different applicable system conditions are considered to determine the optimal location and size of
the STATCOM system. The results of these studies are then reflected in the STATCOM system specification in
terms of rating and control requirements. In addition, system harmonic impedance calculations for all practical
system conditions are often performed including an investigation of the potential for magnification of harmonic
voltages elsewhere in the system. The results are then presented in the STATCOM system specification, e.g.,
in the form of the impedance loci (Figure B.8). This information is important for any STATCOM system
harmonic filter design. For verification purposes, measurements of the system harmonic impedance can also
be done to confirm the calculations for specific conditions.
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A key factor in the design of a STATCOM system remains the harmonic performance. The control system
forms an integral part of the harmonic generation, and therefore the harmonic studies needs to consider the
actual control system. The bidders need to provide substantiated documentation that the harmonics study
utilizes the exact same controller’s logic and algorithms. It should be possible for the user to verify the
harmonic performance and calculation methods.
The user may wish to defer some of these studies and add them to the scope of supply as listed in Clause 11.
There are many factors that influence both the design and performance of the STATCOM system. The network
representation and the STATCOM system model, which includes the detailed representation of the complete
controller with the input transducers, various control functions, and protective functions, as well as the
firing logic of the VSC submodules, should be considered. The importance of this is to enable a complete
determination of control performance, but also component stresses and even harmonic generation.
Each supplier has his own proprietary controller algorithms, and verification of the design is more complicated
in comparison to a SVC design. The network representation should be agreed on between the manufacturer
and the utility. The supplier should demonstrate via benchmark cases that the representation of the STATCOM
is adequate to reflect the actual performance and behavior.
A fundamental benchmark and verification step may be based on benchmark studies with EMT simulations
versus connection of the actual controller to a real time digital simulator (RTDS), and possibly even field
performance tests on existing systems. This verification should be performed during the project stage.
Another factor to be considered in the network modeling is other active controller devices in close proximity
to the STATCOM system that could either impact or interfere with the function of the STATCOM system, such
as other SVC, STATCOMs, FACTS devices, HVDC, or any other active transmission control devices. The
client needs to provide adequate data that will allow the bidders and vendors to assess and study the impact and
verify this through STATCOM system performance studies during tender stage.
In Table B.7 through Table B.12, studies and necessary input data and modeling are described.
Table B.7—Load flow studies

Objective Determine Current and voltage distribution
Active and reactive power flow
Owner supplied data Power flow database, contingency list, possible system configurations
including changes due to future system stages and emergency
conditions (high/low load), system component ratings
Target Check System component stresses below ratings
Voltage profile within permissible range
Find out Weak system conditions
Model Single-phase fundamental frequency representation for balanced
three-phase or component systems for unbalanced conditions
Table B.8—Fault level studies

Objective Determine Max. and min. short circuit currents for single-phase,
phase-to-phase and three-phase faults
Owner supplied data Short circuit database, contingency list, clearing times,
possible system configurations according to critical operating
conditions (high/low load, network stages, etc.)
Target Find out Thermal and dynamic design parameters of station and switchgear
setting values for protection devices, interference on other systems,
treatment of neutral point connection
Model Single-phase fundamental frequency representation for balanced,
Three-phase or component systems for unbalanced conditions
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Table B.9—Stability studies

Objective Determine System performance during and after system fault conditions
Owner supplied data Powerflow database with compatible dynamic data set, contingency
list, clearing times, possible system configurations regarding
outages, emergency cases, and protection actions
Target Evaluate Effects on system, power plants, generator controls, and protection devices
Find out Transient stability limit and system recovery
Determine Measures for improvement to be regarded in system planning,
operating strategies, modifications of control, and protection
Model Differential and algebraic equations in time domain studies, use of
Eigenvalue analysis for small perturbation modes incl. relevant controls and
mechanics depending on required details, reduced equivalent network
Table B.10—Transient studies

Objective Determine Short time stresses of system components (overvoltages,
overcurrents, and related waveshapes)
Owner supplied data Electro-geometric configuration/characteristics of transmission lines,
possible system configurations, transient behavior of components (saturation,
capacitive coupling, etc.), involved control and fast protection
Target Determine Component stresses versus rating, insulation coordination, maloperation
of measurement systems, control and protection systems
Optimize Control structures and protection coordination
Model Detailed three-phase and components representation
including major control and main protection
Table B.11—Harmonic studies (system performance and component rating)

Objective Determine Distortion levels at PCC
Voltage and current stresses of STATCOM system components
Owner supplied data Harmonic sources – type, magnitude
Harmonic system impedances
STATCOM system component properties
Detuning effects of network and STATCOM system
components for performance and rating purposes
Target Calculate Distortion levels at PCC
STATCOM system design
Capacitor voltages and reactor currents
Determine Distortion levels below permissible values
Maximum operating voltages and currents of all components for rating purposes
Model Single-phase representation
Modeling of components according to frequency dependent parameters
Harmonic equivalent impedance area
Table B.12—Harmonic system impedance study

Objective Determine System impedance as seen from the POC of the STATCOM
Mutual impedance between POC and remote buses
Owner supplied data Power flow database, contingency list, possible system configuration
including changes due to future system stages and emergency
conditions (high/low load), system component ratings
Table continues
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Table B.12—Harmonic system impedance study (continued)

Target Calculate Self and mutual impedances related to the POC of the STATCOM
Impedance results should be provided in text files: f (Hz), R
(Ohm), X (Ohm) with frequency steps not larger than 1 Hz
Determine Plot R/X diagrams for different frequencies or frequency ranges
Create search areas for use in harmonic calculations
Model Single-phase representation
Modeling of components according frequency dependent parameters
B.9 Tests (refer to Clause 12)

B.9.1 Factory tests of STATCOM system (refer to 12.1 and 12.3)
STATCOM system tests to be specified include factory tests, i.e., production tests of all components and field
(site) tests of components, subsystems, and the complete STATCOM system.
IEEE Std 1303 should be used when specifying STATCOM system field tests. “Mobile” STATCOMs, which
are designed for service in more than one location, may allow for some of the subsystem tests, now considered
field tests, to be done at factory rather than at site in the future. This trend will help reduce commissioning cost,
at least for smaller STATCOM systems. The user may also consider staged fault tests.
Factory (type and production) testing of the major components of the STATCOM system, to be performed off
site, i.e., at the component factories or test facilities, should be specified per applicable standards as available.
Preference between standards and user-specific requirements should be defined. Table B.13 lists the standards
that apply to STATCOM system components.
Table B.13—Component standards

Component IEEE Standard collections Standard collections of
other organizations
Transformer IEEE C57 series IEC 60076-4 [B19]
Circuit breaker IEC 60056-03 [B18]
Reactor IEC 60076-6 [B20]
Capacitor 18 IEC 60871 [B22]
DC capacitor IEC 61071 [B24]
Resistor
Protection relays IEEE C37 series IEC 60255 [B21]
Thyristor valves IEC 61954
VSC submodules IEC 62927
An important part of the submission is a type test assessment document providing details of the previous type
tests conducted on similar STATCOM VSC and the relevance of the type tests to the project design offered.
The type test assessment report should provide substantiated information to allow the client to assess the
validity of the type tests conducted.
A type test assessment report provides detailed substantiation with calculations and presentation of design
report and type test reports that will allow the buyer to assess if the type test as executed earlier is applicable
for the project under consideration. For standard products, type test assessments are not required as the
relevant internationals or referenced standards will be applicable and should be valid. However, there are
key components in STATCOM systems that are considered unique or customized design, which are changed
and modified for each unique application. This results in different electrical, mechanical, and environmental
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conditions and stresses imposed on the device or component. The intention of an assessment report should
provide full disclosure on the design, the design margins, and the key design parameters, including the
maximum stress values that are applicable for this particular project and application. If a previous type test has
been conducted on a similar device or component, where the stress and test values reflect the maximum and
do not exceed the maximum design values for the project under consideration, it can then be used to reflect
this, and may then be considered in lieu of repeating the type test. It will be important to demonstrate fully the
relevance of the design and the type test values used in the type test report submitted.
The type and routine tests should demonstrate that the design is able to withstand all the stresses from steady
state conditions, as well as for transient, short term conditions as a result of overvoltages, voltage surges,
undervoltages, and any realistic network condition that could impact the ability of the STATCOM system to
function satisfactorily during network faults such as phase shift in the voltages or frequency.
Due to the integral nature of the control system in the operation, control, and protection of the STATCOM
system, it is important that the tests, both routine and type should be applicable for the same control system
used for the project as well as the reference type and routine tests.
B.9.2 Factory tests of controls (refer to 12.2)

Special function tests may be requested to confirm the adequacy of the control system for the application at
hand. Analog transient network analyzers (TNAs) or digital simulators are typically used for these tests. Often,
these function tests are also checked against digital simulations performed as part of the STATCOM system
control development and design. Development and function testing of the (digital) controls may thus be linked
closely with each other or by one process. In any case, a list of control function tests is an important part of
any STATCOM system specification, and the user may wish to make specific additions to this subclause. For
interference testing, the IEC 61000-4 series [B23] provides similar test procedures.
The testing of the STATCOM system controller using digital simulators requires a comprehensive
representation (connection of the actual control system), i.e., the complete controller (such as the voltage
control, unbalance control, supplementary control, etc.) including any protective functions that may reside
inside the controllers and the firing control systems. Examples of such supplementary/protective functions are
current limiters and stability controllers.
It is not foreseen to include classic protection relays in the simulator testing unless it can be clearly identified
as a possible risk of interference. In these events, it is preferred that the client identifies such cases and provides
guidance to the bidders and suppliers as to whether they are to be included. During such protection relay
testing, it is not required to connect multiple relays; only relevant relays need to be interfaced and connected
to the simulator. This is to be used with caution as this could lead to low value information, project time
extensions, and increased costs with little value.
B.10 Documentation (refer to Clause 13)

The following documentation is typically produced by the STATCOM system supplier and should be specified
as deliverables under the contract:
— Technical reports
— Equipment specifications
— Quality assurance documentation
— Equipment test reports
— One-line drawings, as built
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— Three-line drawings, as built

— Control elementary drawings
— Plan and profile drawings, as built
— Civil drawings, as built
— Mechanical drawings, as built
— Architectural drawings, as built
— Operator manuals
— Equipment maintenance repair manuals
— Software and operating system manuals
If computer models of the STATCOM system are required for power system simulation, they should be
specified here.
B.11 Training (refer to Clause 14)

The effective use and reliable operation of a static compensator will depend on the people responsible for its
operation and maintenance. Their initial training will normally be the responsibility of the supplier within the
supply contract, and their continued training updates and the training of new staff will be the responsibility of
the user.
Normally, it should be expected that prior to this training the site staff responsible for operation and
maintenance will be well versed in the normal practices of an ac station, but will not be experienced in power
electronic equipment. The technical specification subclauses describing the training requirements should be
prepared based on this premise.
The user should consider how continued updates of staff and training of new staff should be handled after the
supply contract is concluded. Preparation of a course video is possible, but it should receive specific budgeting
and professional attention independent of the supply contract. Amateur hand-held videos, taken from the back
of the room during training course lectures, have not been shown to give useful results.
In particular, the user should allow staff to participate in site installation and commissioning of equipment. This
opportunity is a unique and valuable way to learn about the equipment and to have access before energization.
The training course should be completed prior to this stage of a project.
Multiple training sessions may be required, both on and off site, with separate sessions targeted at different
users. If this is the case, the specification should indicate clearly the required number of sessions and the
expected content for each session.
B.12 Balance of plant (refer to Clause 15)

Several features tend to be common to most installations, whether fixed or relocatable, as follows:
— The STATCOM system is frequently located in or as an extension of a substation.

— The STATCOM valves, valve auxiliary equipment, and STATCOM system controls will be located in
a custom-designed building.
— The other apparatus (e.g., reactors, capacitors, HV circuit breakers, disconnect and ground switches,
arresters, bus work) will be conventional.
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— The basic construction techniques adopted by the user for conventional HV substations will be suitable
for the STATCOM system installation.
— The few cases where special measures are required for the STATCOM system are in the area of the
STATCOM valve, valve cooling, controls, and grounding. The supplier should describe what is
required for its particular system.
B.12.1 Buildings and structures (refer to 15.1)

A wide variety of building types and styles have been successfully used in STATCOM system installations,
ranging from the most simple pre-engineered industrial building to masonry buildings with full architectural
treatment. In general, each of these approaches has been successful when carefully engineered, and the choice
is a matter of the user’s preference (and budget). A few specific aspects should be considered, however, as
follows:
— Shielding. The switching of the STATCOM valves has the potential for producing EMI. Therefore, the
supplier should be consulted in case any specific shielding concerns exist regarding the valve hall or
control room.
— Circuit security. A number of sensitive circuits are likely to exist between the STATCOM system
controls and other apparatus, such as CT and VT, and will require shielding or special circuit routing
away from sources of electrical noise.
— Health hazard. The inquiry should include any particular requirements regarding health hazards,
taking into account local legislation. If risk assessment is necessary, it should be specified here.
— Building services. Although the primary purpose of the STATCOM system building is to house the
STATCOM system equipment, equipment should be maintained periodically. Personnel are present,
even occasionally in an unmanned station. The level of building services should be integral to the
STATCOM system design regarding the building environment, particularly for the extremes of
operating temperatures that can be permitted and the level of “creature comforts” that will promote
efficient maintenance work (e.g., sanitation, heating, lighting, ventilation, air conditioning).
B.12.2 Fire protection (refer to 15.2)

No industry consensus exists as yet about what level of fire protection is appropriate for a STATCOM system
installation. A reasoned engineering judgment should be applied on an individual basis. The following factors
should be considered:
— Serious fires have occurred in valve halls that contain similar equipment.
— Valves contain little, if any, materials that would support combustion. In other words, some materials
in a valve can be made to burn in the presence of an arc, but the flame goes out once the arc is removed.
— Capacitors within thyristor valve grading circuits should have metal caps and open-circuiting pressure
switches as protection for internal over-pressure.
— The building and the equipment in the building represent a significant economic investment, and fire
protection that is consistent with this investment should be provided.
In view of the above, it seems prudent to recommend the following:
a) All valve halls and control rooms be equipped with fire detection apparatus that will immediately trip
the STATCOM system and isolate it from any source of electrical energy.
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b) Whether a fire-suppressing system is to be installed should be a matter of judgment and local practice.
Appropriate gas-based systems may be specified in lieu of water systems.
c) As much as possible, the fire detection system should be designed to avoid false operation. Two failure
modes exist as follows:
1) Failure to detect a fire and trip the STATCOM system
2) False trip of the STATCOM system when there is no fire
d) Large, oil-filled equipment should be treated in a manner that is consistent with the user’s other oil-
filled apparatus of similar size, cost, and importance (e.g., fire walls, oil containment walls, sumps).
e) It is probably not reasonable to apply fire protection to other outdoor equipment.
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Annex C
(informative)
Method of calculating VSC losses

Ideally, the losses in the submodules should be measured and the total losses for a valve computed from these
measurements. However, electric and/or calorimetric methods to determine losses are, in practice, difficult to
undertake. It is recommended that the losses are determined by calculations as follows in Equation (C.1).
Losses are made up of:
PVt = Ntc ×( PV 1 + PV 2 + PV 3 + PV 4 + PV 5 + PV 6 + PV 7 + PV 8 + PV 9) (C.1)
where
PVt is the total loss in the converter valve

Ntc is the number of submodules in the converter valve
PV1 is the total conduction loss of all insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) or other
switchable devices in one building block
PV 2 is the total conduction loss of all diodes in one building block
PV 3 is the total of all other conduction losses in one building block
PV 4 is the dc voltage dependent losses in one building block
PV 5 is the dc capacitor losses in one building block
PV 6 is the total switching loss of all IGBTs or other switchable devices in one building block
PV 7 is the total diode turn off losses in one building block
PV 8 is the total snubber losses in one building block
PV 9 is the total valve electronics power consumption in one building block
The diode and IGBT losses are dependent on operating temperature, which should be taken into account when
performing calculations.
The converter valve configuration and the relevant method of calculating losses will vary between different
designs of converter valve. The manufacturer should propose a method of calculating losses for the specific
utilized design. These calculations should, where relevant, be based on IEC 62751.
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Annex D
(informative)
Geomagnetic induced current

D.1 GIC description
GIC (geomagnetically induced currents) are very low frequency currents generated during geomagnetic
storms. GIC level depends on the line topology (length and orientation), ground specification, and geographic
location.
The circulation of GIC currents in the transmission network causes the saturation of power transformers, which
increases their var consumption and increases the level of harmonics, and can also create thermal damage to
the transformers. The increased harmonic content can, in turn, cause an overload of the TSC or filters in SVCs
and STATCOM systems. The phenomenon and its impacts on power systems are described in “Effects of GIC
on power transformers and power systems” (Girgis and Vedante [B12]).
D.2 GIC impact on SVC and STATCOM system design and operation
GIC could influence SVC/STATCOM system operation due to the following aspects:
a) High transformer dc components cause core saturation to be regarded for the SVC/STATCOM system
transformer design.
b) DC core magnetization results in increased harmonic generation causing additional stresses on SVC/
STATCOM systems power components, especially the TSC branches and filters (if used). Reactors
are usually designed to absorb some harmonic currents. However, if currents generated by GICs
superimposed on the fundamental exceed reactor thermal limits, overloading will result. The dc offset
created during GIC events can also affect TSR/TCR operation and have an impact on the associated
thyristor valves.
c) High transformer dc components cause core saturation of transformers in the neighborhood of SVC/
STATCOM systems increasing background harmonics described in D.1.
For SVC/STATCOM systems, there are two sources of distortion caused by GIC. The internal (mainly caused
by the saturation of the SVC/STATCOM system coupling transformer) and the external (increased harmonic
content due to GICs outside of the SVC/STATCOM system). These have to be taken into account in the design
of the SVC/STATCOM system.
The internal GIC effect is considered by using the actual saturation characteristic of the SVC/STATCOM
system transformer to investigate the additional harmonic stresses for the TSC and filter components (if used)
caused by the specified dc current.
The external GIC effect is covered by the harmonic rating approach described in D.4.
Harmonic currents and voltages caused by other harmonic sources referred to as background harmonics (refer
to section on “standard harmonics) have to be taken into account as well as GIC related background harmonics
(Table D.2).
The equivalent circuit shown in Figure B.11 can be used for component rating calculations with regard to GIC.
The effect of ambient harmonics without considering GIC is usually modeled by an ambient harmonic voltage
source connected in series with the network harmonic impedances as shown in Figure B.10.
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The impact of these two harmonic sources can then be considered in the design of the medium voltage parts
according to 11.2.2. One approach is to add arithmetically the harmonic component stresses due to GIC to the
harmonic component stresses caused by the specified background harmonics.
D.3 Performance under GIC conditions

The SVC/STATCOM system is designed to continue operation under the GIC conditions described in the
project technical specification. All SVC/STATCOM system components should be designed to withstand the
specified GIC level, defined by additional background harmonics as well as dc currents flowing in STATCOM
system transformer neutrals.
The SVC/STATCOM system transformer should be designed to withstand the dc currents as specified,
including predefined time cycles. The number of occurrences of the dc current cycles should also be defined
by the user. All those parameters are to be considered in the transformer design as this dc current cycle may
lead to a SVC/STATCOM system transformer saturation causing additional harmonic stresses for the SVC/
STATCOM system components connected on the medium voltage busbar, in addition to the additional
background harmonics caused by the saturation of surrounding transformers during GIC events These
component stresses should be used for the component rating. No protection should cause the trip of the SVC/
STATCOM system under the specified GIC levels. However, upon agreement with the user, the manufacturer
can provide protection relays that will continuously monitor the MV branch (e.g., TSC branch) currents or
transformer neutral current. These protections can take remedial actions when the stresses on components
exceed predefined thresholds (e.g., block TSC; the TSCs will be released again after the GIC has disappeared).
D.4 Example of GIC specification

A suggested manner of specifying GIC effect on the network and on the SVC/STATCOM system follows.
Item a) could be referred to as the internal GIC effect specified in D.2 and item b) could be referred to as the
external GIC effect.
CAUTION
The following GIC specification is provided as an example and is not reflective of all power systems
The example reflects conditions in a power system at latitude 45°. A specific study should be performed by
the user to determine the appropriate harmonics and dc currents resulting from geomagnetic storms in the
project area. NERC is currently working on a new standard to define the required performance of North
American power systems during GIC events (Project 2013–03 Geomagnetic Disturbance Mitigation). This
standard defines the magnitude of the electric field appearing during a GIC event in V/km. The benchmark
event proposed in the standard considers a maximum electric field of 8 V/km. Since the magnitude of the
geoelectric field created by geomagnetic storms is variable according to the geographical location (latitude,
ground resistivity, etc.), this maximum value needs to be corrected depending on the area being studied. The
geoelectric field thus generated can cause dc currents to flow into the power system. The amplitude of these
currents also depends on many factors such as the relative orientation of the transmission lines relative to the
geoelectric field. EMT simulations are required to determine the dc current that can flow in the transformer
neutrals at the point of interconnection and establish design criterion for power equipment.
a) GIC currents to be sustained by SVC/STATCOM systems

Current of geomagnetic source injected in transformer neutral:
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Table D.1—DC currents occurring during GIC events

Current magnitude Neutral current Duration Frequency of occurrence
(A/phase) magnitude (A) (minutes) (times per year)
25 75 1 1
15 45 5 5
5 15 10 15
For dc currents exceeding the levels and durations specified in Table D.1, the SVC/STATCOM system
is allowed to trip if the component ratings are exceeded.
b) Additional background harmonics during GIC events
Additional harmonic voltage distortion at PCC due to GIC:
Table D.2—Additional background harmonics occurring during GIC events

Harmonic order 2 3 4 5
Percentage of harmonic distortion compared to fundamental 3% 2% 1% 1%
These values have to be added (see Table D.2) to the background harmonics, and should be sustained
by the SVC/STATCOM system for a duration of 15 min per occurrence, 5 times per year.
If the utility is unable to provide this information, an additional margin on capacitor voltage withstand
capability should be considered instead.
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Annex E
(informative)
Phase angle jump - occurrence and mitigation

E.1 Design consideration
The STATCOM system must take into consideration, from a design perspective, the impact of phase angle
jumps in the system voltage. The occurrence of phase angle jumps could have a direct impact on the design
of the STATCOM system. The user must determine the nature of phase angle jumps that are prevalent in the
grid position where the STATCOM system will be installed. In order to allow the vendor and/or bidders to take
this into consideration, it is recommended that the user provides data on this event. It is recommended that the
following information be provided to help ensure a fair assessment and design of the STATCOM system:
— A network description and detail that demonstrates the phase angle jump. The network detail can be
contained in a Thevenin equivalent circuit and sequence description.
— A complete digital simulation model (EMT-type) can also be provided.
It is strongly recommended to not use typical values for phase angle jump to avoid excessive costs. It is
important to use values that are based on realistic contingencies and events valid for the network where the
STATCOM system will be deployed.
The vendors should base the design of the withstand capability of the STATCOM system on digital
simulations that should form part of the initial design, both at bid stage and at the based design stage. The
design consideration should be applicable with both redundant MMC levels in or out of service.
E.2 Mechanisms
Phase angle jump occurs under the following network conditions:
a) If there are two system transformers in parallel and the one unit trips, then the subsequent increase in
the network impedance results in a change in the load flow and subsequent shift in the phase angle.
b) The same can occur if there are two transmission lines in parallel that are particularly long; the removal
of the one line either intentionally (operational) or via system fault will increase the system impedance
as seen from the load bus/STATCOM bus toward the source. The test or simulation set-up for this
scenario is relatively easy. The case study can be made up and tested and monitoring the phase angle
jump before and after the change without the STATCOM connected.
c) The third instance of phase angle jump is slightly more complicated. Generally, it involves a system
fault relatively far away from the STATCOM busbar, and probably also two sources. Consider the
set-up with a radial feed to a load and STATCOM. The common busbar is upstream from the load
and has two separate infeeds (generation sources). The fault occurs relatively far away and creates a
voltage dip rather than a total voltage collapse. The dip is not large enough to create an LVRT but does
create a shift or displacement in the power flow and, consequently, a phase angle jump at the load bus/
STATCOM bus.
E.3 Consequences on the operation of the STATCOM

The general behavior of the STATCOM/VSC is to react to the phase angle jump or voltage dip. Due to the
nature of the VSC, it acts like a synchronous generator. The voltage on the LV side of the VSC is momentarily
stationary, i.e., it continues to inject reactive power as per the set condition just prior to the phase angle jump.
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However, the rapid change in phase angle cannot be followed as quickly by the VSC control system (lag in the
PLL, for example) and, therefore, the phase shift causes a new load flow condition to appear/exist (reactive
and active power flow).
The condition can result in two outcomes. Depending on the direction of the phase angle jump, it will either
create a rapid injection of active energy into the VSC or extraction of active energy, as follows:
a) In the first instance, the dc voltages on the MMC levels increase rapidly and almost uncontrollably.
This could exceed the maximum design dc levels of the MMC and needs to be considered in the design
until the dc controller is able to regain control and stabilize/reduce the dc voltage. It should not be
acceptable to trip the VSC for the maximum phase angle jump as defined in the specification.
b) In the second instance, the dc voltage may be reduced or depleted beyond the minimum operable
value. This again creates a “sterile” VSC that is unable to respond to the network event. If the VI
characteristic is observed, the vendor indicates continuous and short term reactive power current at LV
levels. However, as noted above, if the event takes place together with a phase angle jump, the VSC
may have to protect itself, either by shutting down completely (trip) or temporarily blocking the MMC
valves. In both cases, the functionality of the VSC is lost.
This phenomenon is not present in all networks but does occur, and if the function is important, but not clearly
defined, it may limit the performance of the STATCOM system.
Resulting design and specification considerations:
It is important for the user setting up the specifications to find and define a realistic test/simulation setup for the
vendor to demonstrate compliance and capability.
It is possible to set-up a Thevenin network with two parallel paths feeding the VSC. The removal of one path
will create a phase displacement/angle jump. This requires some test cases that are aligned with the complete
system values (max phase angle jump).
Special considerations include:
— A key part element is the interactive and rapid control of the dc voltage combined with the speed of
the PLL/voltage controller. The dc controller is typically the fastest, and the speed of it determines the
design margins the vendor can use for the MMC design. It appears that no active surge suppression
is typically added on the MMC dc voltage level. Therefore the preferred method is adequate design
margins.
— The second action item will be to shut down the VSC particularly if the dc level exceeds the SOAR
(safe operating area) of the devices/components. This can occur if the phase angle jump is more than
specified, but there should still be enough time to shut the valve down/trip the VSC before any damage
occurs.
— The moment the max level is detected, it is common practice for the vendor to block the MMC valve.
Even if a trip signal is issued, the inadvertent flow of energy into the valves will continue until the
STATCOM HV circuit breaker opens. This is another key parameter that needs to be defined by the
user data contained in the specification. If the circuit breaker is in the scope of the client, he needs to
confirm this delay time, and if it is with the contractor, it is then within their scope to include this in the
design.
Therefore, it becomes vital to first design the VSC to achieve full compliant performance of the VSC during
the event and not to block or trip if the phase angle jump is within the specified limits. And then, if it is
exceeded, the design should allow safe and secure protection of the VSC without any damage to the MMC or
any component. This is an insulation coordination consideration.
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Annex F
(informative)
Discussion on auxiliary power supply

F.1 STATCOM system auxiliary supply – options and specification
considerations
The auxiliary supply of Hybrid STATCOMs and STATCOMs is an integral part of the entire STATCOM
system that has to conform with the system requirements relating to reliability, availability, and redundancy,
performing continuously to help ensure that the complete STATCOM system operates as per the utility user
requirements. The auxiliary supply provides power to the controllers, cooling system, station supplies, and
various other essential and non-essential loads. With the exception of the cooling system, all other essential
loads are also connected to the UPS system or power from the dc system of the STATCOM system.
A key factor to consider with respect to auxiliary supplies and the application is if the STATCOM system will
be required to provide voltage balance control, reducing the negative sequence of the HV system voltage.
This will directly impact the continuous unbalance to which the STATCOM auxiliary supply may be exposed.
Furthermore, the MV voltage of the STATCOM system is exposed to a wide range of continuous voltages
normally outside the standard range of rated equipment.
Another design consideration is the ability of the auxiliary supply system to provide a stable supply for the
STATCOM system during system faults such as single-phase faults, phase-to-phase faults, and three-phase
faults and LVRT to allow continuous operation of the STATCOM system during these transient events. In
certain applications, it may be considered to add a UPS (uninterruptable power supply) or UMD (universal
motor drive). This is dependent on the fault and LVRT characteristics to be defined by the utility. A UPS or
UMD system will provide an extended capability of the STATCOM system to provide reactive power without
any interruption, adding a buffer against the system faults or during events such as delayed voltage recovery or
TOV. The utilization of a UMD or UPS helps to provide a stable supply to the auxiliary system while making
use of standard range or equipment ratings. The source of the auxiliary supply is chosen based on the utilities’
requirements. The following options may be required to be paired to act redundantly as determined by the user
to help ensure a certain degree of reliability and availability. The options are depicted in Figure F.1.
F.1.1 Option 1: Auxiliary supply from SVC/STATCOM MV busbar

The supply transformer is connected to the MV busbar of the STATCOM system via load break switch,
isolator, or circuit breaker. In some cases this auxiliary supply transformer is installed as a single unit with
a neutral earthing reactor on the MV busbar. The LV terminal is then usually connected to the ATS of the LV
auxiliary supply. This option is typically chosen as one of the auxiliary supplies as this supply is available
when the STATCOM system is connected and is, thus, available as long as the STATCOM system is in service.
The advantages and disadvantages can be summarized as follows:
Advantages:
— Available when the SVC/STATCOM is in service and connected to the grid.

— Less complicated coordination of control and protection protocols and functions as this supply option
is part of the SVC/STATCOM system.
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Figure F.1—STATCOM system auxiliary supply options
Disadvantages:
— Voltage variation on the MV busbar is very high, as the reactive power controlling equipment is
removed from the controlled point of connection via the STATCOM system transformer impedance.
An AVR is required to control the auxiliary supply voltage. If voltage balance control is used in the
STATCOM system, it may be even more challenging to maintain a stable and safe auxiliary supply due
to the very high levels of voltage unbalance on the MV voltage side of the STATCOM.
— While the STATCOM system breaker is open, this supply is also not energized, making the STATCOM
system start-up sequence from this supply point challenging, requiring special black-start equipment
to start the cooling system.
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F.1.2 Option 2: Auxiliary supply from tertiary winding of SVC/STATCOM transformer

The user may require that the STATCOM system transformer is designed with a tertiary winding that can be
used to supply the STATCOM system auxiliary loads. This option comes with the following advantages and
disadvantages:
Advantages:
— Since the STATCOM system transformer is usually part of the scope of supply of the STATCOM
system, the coordination of protection and control functions and protocols between the auxiliary
supply point and the STATCOM system can be integrated uniformly.
— This auxiliary supply option does not add significantly to the footprint of the STATCOM system as it
forms part of the STATCOM system power transformer.
— If the tertiary winding is coupled magnetically to the HV winding, the voltage regulation on the tertiary
winding is considered stable, and less exposed to both the wide range of MV voltages or unbalance.
Disadvantages:
— As the auxiliary is coupled magnetically to the MV winding, the voltage regulation on the tertiary
winding is also quite severe, depending on the transformer impedance. An AVR is required to
condition the voltage. If the STATCOM system is used for voltage unbalance, this solution will also
cause problems to the LV systems, necessitating a UPS or UMD to be added.
— Since the main circuit breaker of the STATCOM system is located on the HV side of the STATCOM
system transformer, the tertiary winding is also only energized when the circuit breaker is closed and
the STATCOM system connected. Similar to the MV supply option, this makes the start-up sequence
somewhat challenging and requires additional measures to start the cooling system if the STATCOM
system has been out of service for some time as the cooling water would have to be filtered to help
ensure that the conductivity is below the threshold limit.
— The tertiary winding adds complexity to the STATCOM system transformer that may impact the
reliability of the equipment. Also, faults on the auxiliary supply may cause main transformer protection
trips, reducing availability of the STATCOM system.
— Maintenance on the tertiary winding takes the entire STATCOM system out of service as the complete
STATCOM system transformer has to be disconnected and isolated.
F.1.3 Option 3: Auxiliary supply from substation auxiliary system

The substation supply is usually in the form of a transformer that connects the substation auxiliaries to an
MV feeder in the substation. It is very rare that the STATCOM system auxiliaries’ supply is fed from the LV
auxiliary as the load currents would be impractically high. Usually, the MV supply voltage from the substation
auxiliary has to be stepped down to the LV level via another distribution transformer close to the STATCOM
system location. If the substation MV supply does not have the capacity to accommodate the additional loading
associated with the STATCOM system, the MV supply would have to be upgraded.
Advantages:
— The substation supply is relatively secure as it is fed directly from the supply where the STATCOM
system is also connected.
— The supply is available even when the STATCOM system is out of service and can thus be used to start
the auxiliary systems without the STATCOM system running.
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IEEE Std 1052-2018

Disadvantages:
— If the station supply does not have capacity for the additional load of the STATCOM system auxiliaries,
the entire supply has to be upgraded.
— The protection and control protocols of the STATCOM system may differ from the existing substation
and require coordination to allow sound operation of both the substation auxiliaries and the STATCOM
system.
F.1.4 Option 4: Auxiliary supply from tertiary winding of any power transformer in
the substation
When a tertiary winding supply of a power transformer in the STATCOM system substation is available and
has sufficient capacity to accommodate the additional load of the STATCOM system auxiliary, it is necessary
to consider the following advantages and disadvantages:
Advantage: The availability and reliability of transmission equipment is usually very high resulting in a very
reliable auxiliary supply.
Disadvantages:
— The protection and control protocols of the STATCOM system may differ from the existing substation
and require coordination to allow sound operation of both the substation auxiliaries and the STATCOM
system.
— When the power transformer is out of service due to maintenance, the auxiliary supply to the
STATCOM system is also not available.
— Auxiliary supply faults may trip the power transformer resulting in reduced reliability of the
transmission system in the area.
F.1.5 Option 5: Auxiliary supply from distribution grid (local area supply)
In order to decouple the transmission system where the STATCOM system is connected and the supply of the
STATCOM system auxiliaries, a local area supply may be chosen as an option. The operating expenses of the
STATCOM system relating to this option also play a role in deciding whether this option is viable.
Advantage: Decoupling the transmission system from the STATCOM system supply should promote
reliability during network events when the STATCOM system is expected to perform under scrutiny. Having a
completely different source for the auxiliary supply should mean that the supply is truly redundant. However,
if the distribution grid supplying the auxiliary loads is strongly interconnected to the transmission system
where the STATCOM system operates, this advantage evaporates as then all auxiliary supplies are subjected to
the same undervoltages associated with the network events.
Disadvantage: Most distribution grids are subject to more severe and more frequent network events than the
transmission grid. This results in a lower reliability of the supply. The distribution grid faults are also usually
longer in duration due to protection grading of LV equipment. This may again necessitate the use of a UPS or
UMD to allow secure operation of the STATCOM system during faults on the local distribution system
F.2 Auxiliary supply power quality

The requirement for voltage quality and the availability of the auxiliary supply depends on all the loads that are
fed by the supply. Depending on the type of equipment, the requirements for voltage stability and overvoltage
112
IEEE Std 1052-2018

and undervoltage limits may require additional equipment to be installed to help ensure that the reliability and
availability of the entire STATCOM system is not compromised.
The selection of the supplies for the auxiliary system also requires careful coordination to help ensure that at
least one redundant supply is always available and that the redundant supply is capable of serving all the loads
required for normal operation of the STATCOM system.
For the supply points directly fed by the transmission grid, the voltage quality criteria are well defined and
meticulously controlled as the voltage quality on the transmission level has an impact on the entire transmission
and distribution grid. The VI curve that the STATCOM system has to abide by on the HV point of coupling
can be extrapolated to calculate a similar VI curve that the LV auxiliary supply will encounter. Based on the
overvoltages and undervoltages, and the voltage variation and rates of change of the voltage, the auxiliary
supply has to be designed with the aim that all the essential and non-essential loads fed by the supply operate
continuously. This requirement will define the additional voltage regulation equipment that will be required.
The valve cooling system is the largest single load supplied from the auxiliary supply. The cooling system is
also vital to the continuous operation of the STATCOM system. It is thus very important to have sufficient
supply quality and redundancy to help ensure the continuous operation of the cooling system and, therefore,
also the STATCOM system as a whole. The valve technology employed by the manufacturer and the ratings
and design of the semiconductor switches dictates the cooling system design considering the specification
requirements. The STATCOM system specification states the undervoltage requirements that the STATCOM
system has to meet. Depending on the auxiliary supply selection, the undervoltage levels and durations
encountered by the auxiliary system and, thus, also the cooling system may require additional measures to
prevent the cooling system from impeding the availability of the STATCOM system.
When the local distribution supply option is selected, the voltage profile that the auxiliary supply encounters
does not necessarily follow the VI-diagram requirements with which the STATCOM system has to comply
at the point of connection. The local distribution supply is also often plagued by unplanned outages as the
distribution system usually has more connections and equipment that increase the outage risk. The power
quality on the local distribution supply is also often worse than that of the transmission system due to loads
injecting harmonic content in close proximity. It is, thus, important for the manufacturer to request guaranteed
distribution voltage profiles and quality of supply values from the utility in order to design the auxiliary supply
to mitigate any of these challenges and to help ensure that the reliability of the complete STATCOM system
remains intact. The automatic transfer scheme (ATS) implemented on the STATCOM system auxiliary supply
has to take the guaranteed voltage profiles of the local distribution supply into account when programming the
selection sequence.
The ATS system has to take the power quality of the various supply options that are available into account
before making a selection. When two incomers to the auxiliary supply system originate at the same busbar they
should not be considered truly redundant as any upstream network faults impact both supplies simultaneously.
If the supply of the auxiliary system does not meet the cooling system undervoltage requirements for the
STATCOM system operation according to the specified VI characteristic, the cooling pumps might have to
be fitted with UMDs that supply short term power to the pumps from battery banks while the auxiliary supply
voltage recovers. It is, however, at the discretion of the manufacturer to design the auxiliary supply so that
the STATCOM system operates according to the specification, as the design of the auxiliary system depends
largely on the STATCOM system technology used by the manufacturer.
113
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2019-11-26; Pandey, Ankit; SIEMENS, RC-IN GP EPC TS OPS EN

IEEE Guide for Specification of

IEEE Power and Energy Society

IEEE IEEE Std 1052™-2018

IEEE Std 1052™-2018

IEEE Guide for Specification of

Approved 5 December 2018

IEEE-SA Standards Board

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.

Copyright © 2019 by The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.

PDF: ISBN 978-1-5044-5379-0 STD23460

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Ted Burse Xiaohui Liu Robby Robson

9. Main components—required functions and features��������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 32

Annex B (informative) Notes for a functional specification��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 52

Annex C (informative) Method of calculating VSC losses��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 103

Annex D (informative) Geomagnetic induced current��������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 104

Annex E (informative) Phase angle jump - occurrence and mitigation��������������������������������������������������������� 107

Annex F (informative) Discussion on auxiliary power supply��������������������������������������������������������������������� 109

IEEE Guide for Specification of

— Newer developments in STATCOM components, particularly control systems

IEEE Std 1052-2018

2. Normative references

Accredited Standards Committee C2-1997, National Electrical Safety Code®.2,3

IEC 61954, Static var compensators (SVC) - Testing of thyristor valves.

IEEE Std 18™, IEEE Standard for Shunt Power Capacitors.5,6

IEEE Std C57.123™, Guide for Transformer Loss Measurement.

IEEE Std 1052-2018

3. Definitions, acronyms and abbreviations

mechanically switched capacitor/mechanically switched capacitive damping network (MSC/MSCDN):

IEEE Std 1052-2018

STATCOM (static synchronous compensator): A static synchronous generator operated as a shunt-

3.2 Acronyms and abbreviations

BIL basic insulation level

IEEE Std 1052-2018

Figure 1—Explanation of STATCOM system nomenclature

IEEE Std 1052-2018

TIF telephone influence factor

4. STATCOM system project description

IEEE Std 1052-2018

_______ (site location)

_______ (system one line diagram/substation electrical environment)

_______ (power circuit)

_______ (station service)

_______ (control and protection)

and, for turnkey projects

_______ (site sub-surface and geotechnical data)

See Annex B for additional discussion of the VSC specification.

5. Scope of supply and schedule

Table 1—Scope of supply checklist

IEEE Std 1052-2018

Table 1—Scope of supply checklist (continued)

IEEE Std 1052-2018

6. Site and environmental data

9. Main components—required functions and features�� 32

Annex B (informative) Notes for a functional specification�� 52

Annex C (informative) Method of calculating VSC losses�� 103

Annex D (informative) Geomagnetic induced current�� 104

Annex E (informative) Phase angle jump - occurrence and mitigation�� 107

Annex F (informative) Discussion on auxiliary power supply�� 109