APPLICATION OF POWER

ELECTRONICS TO POWER SYSTEMS

(BEE 4113)

Mr. Ravindu Herath

Electrical Engineer
B.Tech (Hons) in Mechatronics, MBA – Reading, MIEEE, MIET
• Credit Value: 3
• Learning Outcomes:
• Appraise the concept of shunt, series compensation techniques and FACTS controllers used
in transmission and distribution systems.
• Explains the modern custom power device used for power quality compensation /
improvement in electric power distribution networks
• Organize the lab report based on the topics in application of power electronics to power
systems.
• Prepare an assignment on analysis, modelling and performance of various power
electronics devices.
• Reference books:
▪ Applications of Power Electronics in Power System By Neeraj Vyas
Saifullah Khalid
▪ Power Electronics by Mohan
(https://fuuu.be/polytech/LANGH300/LED/1995_BOOK_Mohan_820p_
Power_Electronics_2nd.pdf)
▪ Application of Power Electronics (https://doi.org/10.3390/books978-3-
03897-975-3)
What is power electronics ?
• Power electronics uses semiconductor switching devices to control and convert
electrical power flow from one form to another to meet a specific need.

Fig01: Block diagram of a power electronic system.

Fig 02: Applications of Power Electronics
Applications for power electronics devices in power
system
▪ High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Converter Stations
▪ Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) Devices
▪ Variable-Speed Drives for Motors
▪ Interfaces with Energy Storage Devices
▪ Interfacing Distributed Energy Resources (DER) with the Grid
▪ Electric Drives in Transportation Systems
▪ Fault Current-Limiting Devices
▪ Solid-State Distribution Transformers
▪ Transfer Switches
Transmission lines
• Transmission lines are the conduits through which electrical power is transmitted
over long distances from power plants to substations and eventually to
consumers.

Characteristics:

• Resistance
• Inductance
• Capacitance
• Conductance
• Resistance
Resistance represents the opposition to the flow of electric current in a transmission line.

• Inductance
Inductance arises due to the magnetic field generated around the conductors when
current flows through them.

• Capacitance
Capacitance refers to the ability of transmission line conductors to store electrical
energy in an electric field.

• Conductance
Conductance represents the ease with which electric current flows through a
transmission line.
The Ferranti Effect
• The Ferranti Effect is a voltage increase in the receiving end of an electrical
transmission line.
• When It is operated in a no-load or low-load condition. This results in a
receiving end voltage value higher than the sending point.
• The effect is caused by
• Transmission line capacitance
• Load at the receiving end
• Supply Frequency
Power electronics benefits to transmission and
distribution
1. Increased Loading and More Effective Use of Transmission Corridors
Power electronics enable efficient control of power flow, allowing transmission corridors to
handle higher loads without compromising reliability.

2. Added Power Flow Control

Power electronics devices such as FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission Systems) provide dynamic
voltage and reactive power control, allowing for precise power flow management.

3. Improved Power System Stability

Power electronics-based solutions offer fast and effective means of damping oscillations,
mitigating voltage fluctuations, and maintaining system stability during disturbances.
4. Increased System Security
Power electronics enable rapid fault detection, isolation, and restoration, enhancing the electric
grid's resilience and security.

5. Increased System Reliability

Power electronics devices reduce the likelihood of equipment failures and outages by providing
grid operators with greater visibility and control over grid operations.

6. Added Flexibility in Siting New Generation Facilities

Power electronics facilitate the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar
PV, wind turbines, and energy storage systems into the grid.

7. Elimination or Deferral of the Need for New Transmission Lines:

Power electronics technologies can postpone the need for costly transmission line expansions by
optimizing power flow and enhancing grid efficiency.
Surge impedance loading (SIL)

• Surge Impedance Loading (SIL) is the power level at which a transmission line
operates with minimum voltage regulation and maximum power transfer
capability.
• It represents the ideal condition where the line impedance matches the surge
impedance of the line, resulting in minimal voltage drop along the line.
• A transmission line has a surge impedance of 400 ohms. If the line-to-line
voltage is 220 kV, calculate the transmission line's Surge Impedance Loading
(SIL).
80
What is reactive power ?

• Reactive power (Q) is defined as the product of voltage (V), current (I), and
the sine of the phase angle (θ) between voltage and current in an AC circuit.

• Reactive power is essential for maintaining voltage levels and ensuring the
efficient operation of AC power systems.
• Inductive loads, such as motors and transformers, consume reactive power by
creating magnetic fields that store energy during part of the AC cycle and
release it during another part.

• Capacitive loads, such as capacitors, generate reactive power by storing

energy in an electric field during one part of the cycle and releasing it during
the other.
 Reactive power compensation
• Reactive power compensators generate
or absorb reactive power in power
systems to regulate voltage levels and
improve power factor.

• They ensure that the reactive power

demand of the load is met, preventing
voltage fluctuations and ensuring stable
operation of the grid.
Shunt Compensators

• These devices are connected in parallel with the load and generate or absorb
reactive power to regulate voltage levels.

• Examples

• Static Var Compensators (SVCs) use power electronics devices such as thyristors or
insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) to inject or absorb reactive power, providing
fast and dynamic voltage control.

• Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOMs) are voltage-source converters that

regulate grid voltage by injecting or absorbing reactive power as required. They offer
rapid response times and precise voltage control.
Series Compensators

• Series compensators are connected in series with the transmission line to

regulate line impedance and improve power transfer capability.

• Examples

• Thyristor-Controlled Series Capacitors (TCSCs)use thyristor-based switches to

dynamically adjust the transmission line's reactance, thereby improving power transfer
capacity and reducing line losses.
• Static Synchronous Series Compensators (SSSCs) are similar to STATCOMs but are
connected in series with the transmission line to provide dynamic impedance
compensation, enhancing power flow control and stability.
Unified Compensators

• Unified compensators combine series and shunt compensation capabilities to

provide comprehensive voltage and reactive power control. They offer
enhanced flexibility and efficiency in managing grid dynamics.
Questions ?
 APPLICATION OF POWER
ELECTRONICS TO POWER SYSTEMS
(BEE 4113)

Day 02

Mr. Ravindu Herath

Electrical Engineer/ Visiting Lecturer
B.Tech (Hons) in Mechatronics,
MBA – Reading, MIEEE, MIET

1
Recommended References
TEXT BOOK:
1. “N.G. Hingorani and L. Guygi”, Understanding FACTS Devices, IEEE
Press Publications 2000.
2. “Yong- Hua Song, Allan Johns”, Flexible AC Transmission System, IEE
Press 1999.
REFERENCES:
1. “Kalyan K. Sen and Meylingsen”, Introduction to FACTS Controllers,
John wiley & sons, Inc., Mohamed E. EI – Hawary Series editor, 2009.
2. “K. R Padiyar, Motilal”, FACTS controllers in power transmission and
distribution. UK Books of India 2007.
FACTS
Flexible AC Transmission System (Facts) is a new
integrated concept based on power electronic
switching converters and dynamic controllers to
enhance the system utilization and power transfer
capacity as well as the stability, security, reliability and
power quality of AC system interconnections.
 INTRODUCTION

➢ Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System.

➢ FACTS as they are generally known, are new devices that

improve transmission systems.

➢ FACTS is a static equipment used for the AC transmission

of electrical energy.

➢ It is generally a power electronics based device.

➢ Meant to enhance controllability and increase power

transfer capability.

5
History of FACTS
BENEFITS OF FACTS DEVICES

➢Regulation of power flows in prescribed transmission routes.

➢Reduces the need for construction of new transmission lines,

capacitors and reactors.

➢Provides greater ability to transfer power between controlled areas.

➢These devices help to damp the power oscillations that could damage
the equipment.
➢Improves the transient stability of the system.

➢Controls real and reactive power flow in the line independently.

➢Damping of oscillations which can threaten security or limit the

usable line capacity.
➢ Better utilization of existing transmission system assets
UPFC CIRCUIT DIAGRAM
➢ Increased transmission system reliability and availability (lower
vulnerability to load changes, line faults)

➢ Increased dynamic and transient grid

➢ Stability and reduction of loop flows

➢ Increased quality of supply for sensitive industries (through mitigation of

flicker, frequency variations)

➢ Environmental benefits

9
OVER VIEW OF FACTS
AC- NETWORK CONTROLLERS

CONVENTIONAL FACTS-Devices
(Switched) (Fast and Static)

R,L,C, Transformer Thyristor VSC Hybrid

Valve

STATCOM +
Switched Shunt STATCOM
SVC Energy
Compensation
Storage

Switched Series SSSC, IPFC FCL

TCSC
Compensation

Phase Shifting
Transformer DFC UPFC, DPFC
11
Basic Types of
FACTS Controllers
 Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
FACTS controllers are classified as
1. Series Controllers
2. Shunt Controllers
3. Combined Series-Series Controllers
4. Combined Series-Shunt Controllers
 Basic Types of FACTS Controllers

Series Controllers
It could be a variable impedance (capacitor, reactor,
etc) or a power electronic based variable source of
main frequency, subsynchonous and harmonic
frequencies to serve the desired need.
 Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Series Controllers

➢ Inject a voltage in series with the line.

➢If the voltage is in phase quadrature with the current,

controller supplies or consumes reactive power.

➢Any other phase, involves control of both active and

reactive power.
 Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Shunt Controllers
The shunt controllers may be variable impedance, variable sources
or combination of these.
In principle, all shunt Controllers inject current into the system at the
point of connection. As long as the injected current is in phase
quadrature with the line voltage, the shunt Controller only supplies
or consumes variable reactive power.
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Shunt Controllers

➢Inject a current in the system.

➢If the current is in phase quadrature with the voltage,

controller supplies or consumes reactive power.

➢Any other phase, involves control of both active and

reactive power.
 Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Combined Series-Series Controllers
➢The combination could be separate series controllers or unified
series-series controller.
➢Series Controllers provide independent series reactive
compensation for each line but also transfer real power among the
lines via the power link- Interline Power Flow Controller
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Combined Series-Series Controllers:
➢Series controllers supply reactive power for each
line and real power among lines via power link.
➢Interline power flow controller balance real and
reactive power flow in the lines.
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Combined Series-Shunt Controllers

➢It could be a combination of separate series &

shunt controllers or unified power flow controller.
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Combined Series-Shunt Controllers

➢Inject current into the system with the shunt controller and
voltage in series with the line with series controller.

➢When the controllers are unified, exchange real power

between series and shunt controllers via power link.
 Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
Choice of the controller:
➢Series controller controls the current/power flow by controlling
the driving voltage.
➢To control current/power flow and damp oscillations, series
controller is several times more powerful than shunt controller.
➢Shunt controller injects current in the line
➢Thus it is used for more effective voltage control & damp
voltage oscillations.
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
➢Injecting the voltage in series with the line can improve the
voltage profile.
➢But shunt controller is more effective to improve the voltage
profile at substation bus.
➢For a given MVA, size of series controller is small compared
to shunt controller.
➢Shunt controllers cannot control the power flow in the lines.
➢Series controllers should bypass short circuit currents and
handle dynamic overloads.
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
➢Controllers with gate turn off devices are based on dc to ac
converters and exchange active/reactive power with ac lines.
➢This requires energy storage device.
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers

➢Energy storage systems are needed when active power is

involved in the power flow.
➢A controller with storage is more effective for controlling the
system dynamics.
➢A converter-based controller can be designed with high pulse
order or pulse width modulation to reduce the low order
harmonic generation to a very low level.
➢A converter can be designed to generate the correct
waveform in order to act as an active filter.
SHUNT COMPENSATION
➢Change the natural electrical characteristics of the
transmission line to make it more compatible with the
prevailing load demand.

➢Thus, shunt-connected, fixed or mechanically switched

reactors are applied to minimize line overvoltage under light
load conditions, and shunt-connected, fixed, or mechanically
switched capacitors are applied to maintain voltage levels
under heavy load conditions.
➢The ultimate objective of applying reactive shunt compensation in a
transmission system is to increase the transmittable power.

1. Static var compensators (SVC): These are banks of capacitors

(sometimes inductors also for use under light load conditions)
2. STATCOM: static synchronous compensator
3. Synchronous condenser: It is a synchronous motor running at no-
load and having excitation adjustable over a wide range. It feeds
positive VARs into the line under overexcited conditions and
negative VARS when under excited.
 Advantage of Shunt
compensation
➢Shunt compensation devices help maintain stable voltage
levels throughout the electrical grid by injecting or absorbing
reactive power as needed.
➢Shunt compensation improves the power factor by supplying
or absorbing reactive power to balance the system's real (active)
power.
➢Shunt compensation devices reduce transmission and
distribution losses in the power system by optimizing power
factor and voltage levels. Lower losses translate to increased
efficiency and cost savings for utilities and consumers, as less
energy is wasted during power transmission.
➢Shunt compensation enhances transmission lines' and substations'
power transfer capability by improving voltage stability and
reducing reactive power flow.
➢Shunt compensation devices help mitigate voltage flicker and
harmonics caused by fluctuations in load or the presence of non-
linear loads in the system.
➢Shunt compensation provides reactive power support to meet
the system's varying reactive power demands. This is particularly
important during peak load periods or in systems with fluctuating
loads, where reactive power requirements may change rapidly.
Static VAR Compensators (SVC)
➢Shunt connected static var generators and/or absorbers whose outputs are
varied so as to control specific power system quantities

➢The term static is used to denote that there are no moving or rotating
components

➢Basic types of SVCs:

◦ Thyristor-controlled reactor (TCR)

◦ Thyristor-switched capacitor (TSC)

◦ Fixed Capacitor - Thyristor-Controlled Reactor (FC-TCR)

Application of SVC for transmission line

➢Increase power transfer in long lines

➢Improve stability with fast acting voltage regulation
➢Damp low frequency oscillations due to swing (rotor)
modes
➢Damp subsynchronous frequency oscillations due to
torsional modes.
➢Control dynamic over voltages
➢The location of SVC is important in determining its
effectiveness.
➢Ideally, it should be located at the electrical center of the
system or midpoint of a transmission line.
➢Due to voltage variation in the line (due to variation in 6) is
maximum atthe midpoint.
➢A static var system (SVS) is an aggregation of
SVCs and mechanically switched capacitors or
reactors whose outputs are coordinated

➢When operating at its capacitive limit, an SVC

behaves like a simple capacitor
(a) Controllable (b) Fixed capacitor (c) SVS
reactor

Composite characteristics of an SVS

Use of switched capacitors to extend continuous
control range
A Typical Static Var System
SVS steady-state characteristics

(a) Voltage-current (b) Voltage-reactive power

characteristic characteristic
The steady-state characteristics of a Static Var
Compensator (SVC)
Its behavior under normal operating conditions when the system has
reached a stable state.

1.Voltage Regulation

• The primary function of an SVC is to regulate voltage levels

within a specified range.

• By controlling the firing angle of the thyristor-controlled

reactor (TCR) and/or the switching of thyristor-switched
capacitors (TSC), the SVC can absorb or inject reactive power
as needed to regulate voltage.
2. Reactive Power Compensation

• SVC provides continuous reactive power compensation to improve the power

factor and stabilize the voltage.

• In steady-state operation, the SVC adjusts its reactive power output based on
system requirements and control signals.

• Depending on the configuration (such as TCR, TSC, or a combination of both),

the SVC can quickly respond to changes in system conditions to provide
dynamic reactive power support.

3. Current Limitations

• SVCs have limitations on the maximum current they can handle under steady-
state conditions.

• Design considerations, such as the rating of thyristors and reactors, ensure that
the SVC operates within safe operating limits while providing the required
reactive power compensation.
4. Harmonic Compensation

• In addition to reactive power compensation, SVCs can also mitigate

harmonics in the power system.

• By injecting or absorbing reactive power at specific frequencies,

SVCs can help reduce harmonic distortion in voltage and current
waveforms, improving power quality.
Thyristor-Controlled Reactor (TCR)

➢ TCR consists of a reactor (inductor)

connected in series with a thyristor-
controlled switch.

➢ The thyristor switch, also known as a

controlled rectifier, allows for the
adjustment of the reactor's impedance
by controlling the firing angle of the
thyristors.
 Characteristics of TCR

➢ TCR provides continuous and dynamic control of reactive power

compensation in electrical power systems.

➢ By varying the firing angle of the thyristors, the impedance of the reactor
can be adjusted, thereby controlling the flow of reactive power.

➢ TCR devices are commonly used to control voltage, power factor

correction, and stabilization of power systems, especially in high-voltage
transmission networks.
 Thyristor switched capacitors (TSC)

➢ Thyristor switched capacitors (TSC) are

generally used instead of constant capacity
thyristor controlled reactor (FC-TCR).

➢ Generally single or more than one TSC

structure is connected to the same load bus in
parallel (the reactive power values of TCS are
chosen approximately equal to each other).

➢ As the demand for reactive power increases, the

thyristors are triggered and the required number
of TSCs are activated. We can say that TSCs
are commissioned in sequence step by step.
 Characteristics of TSC

➢ TSC offer fast response times due to thyristor-based AC switches,

allowing for quick connection or disconnection of shunt capacitor banks.

➢ TSC provide reactive power compensation in discrete steps, activating or

deactivating capacitor units as needed to meet changing system demands.

➢ Multiple TSC structures can be connected in parallel to the same load bus,
providing scalability and flexibility in reactive power control.

➢ TSC are commissioned sequentially, each being activated step by step to

meet increasing reactive power demands, ensuring smooth and gradual
adjustment.
Fixed Capacitor - Thyristor-Controlled Reactor (FC-TCR)

➢ FC-TCR combines fixed capacitors with

the TCR configuration.

➢ It includes fixed capacitors connected in

parallel with the thyristor-controlled
reactor.
Characteristics of FC-TCR

➢ The addition of fixed capacitors enhances the compensation capability of the

TCR system.

➢ When the TCR impedance is at its minimum (fully conducting state), the
fixed capacitors provide leading reactive power support during operation.

➢ This combination enables improved voltage regulation, power factor

correction, and stability enhancement in power systems.
Thyristor-Switched Capacitor - Thyristor-Controlled Reactor (TSC-TCR)

➢ A combined TSC and TCR is the optimum solution in majority of

cases. With this, continuous variable reactive power is obtained
throughout the complete control range.

➢ Furthermore full control of both inductive and capacitive parts of the

compensator is obtained. This is a very advantageous feature permitting
optimum performance during large disturbances in the power system
(e.g. line faults, load rejection etc) TSC/TCR combinations are
characterized by continuous control, no transients, low generations of
harmonics, low losses, redundancy, flexible control and operation.
Thank You
 APPLICATION OF POWER
ELECTRONICS TO POWER SYSTEMS
(BEE 4113)

Day 03

Mr. Ravindu Herath

Electrical Engineer/ Visiting Lecturer
B.Tech (Hons) in Mechatronics,
MBA – Reading, MIEEE, MIET

4/26/2024 1 1
FACTS
Flexible AC Transmission System (Facts) is a new
integrated concept based on power electronic
switching converters and dynamic controllers to
enhance the system utilization and power transfer
capacity as well as the stability, security, reliability and
power quality of AC system interconnections.

4/26/2024 2
OVER VIEW OF FACTS

AC- NETWORK CONTROLLERS

CONVENTIONAL FACTS-Devices
(Switched) (Fast and Static)

R,L,C, Transformer Thyristor VSC Hybrid

Valve

STATCOM +
Switched Shunt STATCOM
SVC Energy
Compensation
Storage

Switched Series SSSC, IPFC FCL

TCSC
Compensation

Phase Shifting
Transformer DFC UPFC, DPFC
4/26/2024 3
3
Basic Types of FACTS Controllers
FACTS controllers are classified as

➢Series Controllers
➢Shunt Controllers
➢Combined Series-Series Controllers
➢Combined Series-Shunt Controllers

4/26/2024 4
Static Synchronous Compensator
(STATCOM)

4/26/2024 5
 Introduction

❑ The STATCOM (or SSC) is a shunt-connected reactive-power

compensation device that is capable of generating and/ or absorbing
reactive power and in which the output can be varied to control the
specific parameters of an electric power system.

❑It is in general a solid-state switching converter capable of generating

or absorbing independently controllable real and reactive power at its
output terminals when it is fed from an energy source or energy-
storage device at its input terminals.

4/26/2024 6
❑ This shunt connected static compensator was developed as an
advanced static VAR compensator where a voltage source
convertor (VSC) is used in- stead of the controllable reactors and
switched capacitors.

❑ Although VSCs require self-commutated power semiconductor

devices such as GTO, IGBT, IGCT, MCT, etc (with higher costs
and losses) unlike in the case of variable impedance type SVC
which use thyristor devices.

4/26/2024 7
The dc voltage is provided by an energy-storage capacitor and a
STATCOM can improve power-system performance in such areas as
the following:

1. The dynamic voltage control in transmission and distribution

systems;
2. The power-oscillation damping in power-transmission systems;
3. The transient stability;
4. The voltage flicker control; and
5. The control of not only reactive power but also (if needed) active
power in the connected line, requiring a dc energy source.

4/26/2024 8
4/26/2024 9
 Principle of Operation

❑A STATCOM is a controlled reactive-power source. It provides the desired

reactive-power generation and absorption entirely by means of electronic
processing of the voltage and current waveforms in a voltage-source
converter (VSC).

❑A single-line STATCOM power circuit is shown in Fig.(a),where a VSC is

connected to a utility bus through magnetic coupling.

❑In Fig. (b), a STATCOM is seen as an adjustable voltage source behind a

reactance meaning that capacitor banks and shunt reactors are not needed for
reactive-power generation and absorption, thereby giving a STATCOM a
compact design, or small footprint, as well as low noise and low magnetic
impact.

4/26/2024 10
4/26/2024 11
❑The exchange of reactive power between the converter and the ac
system can be controlled by varying the amplitude of the 3-phase
output voltage, Es, of the converter, as illustrated in Fig. (c).

❑If the amplitude of the output voltage is increased above that of the
utility bus voltage, Et, then a current flows through the reactance
from the converter to the ac system and the converter generates
capacitive-reactive power for the ac system.

❑If the amplitude of the output voltage is decreased below the utility
bus voltage, then the current flows from the ac system to the
converter and the converter absorbs inductive-reactive power from
the ac system.

4/26/2024 12
❑Adjusting the phase shift between the converter-output voltage and
the ac system voltage can similarly control real-power exchange
between the converter and the ac system. In other words, the
converter can supply real power to the ac system from its dc energy
storage if the converter-output voltage is made to lead the ac-system
voltage.

❑On the other hand, it can absorb real power from the ac system for
the dc system if its voltage lags behind the ac-system voltage.

❑A STATCOM provides the desired reactive power by exchanging

the instantaneous reactive power among the phases of the ac system.

4/26/2024 13
❑The mechanism by which the converter internally generates and/ or
absorbs the reactive power can be understood by considering the
relationship between the output and input powers of the converter.
The converter switches connect the dc-input circuit directly to the ac-
output circuit. Thus the net instantaneous power at the ac output
terminals must always be equal to the net instantaneous power at the
dc-input terminals (neglecting losses).

❑Assume that the converter is operated to supply reactive-output

power. In this case, the real power provided by the dc source as input
to the converter must be zero.

❑Furthermore, because the reactive power at zero frequency (dc) is

by definition zero, the dc source supplies no reactive over as input to
the converter and thus clearly plays no part in the generation of
reactive-output power by the converter.

4/26/2024 14
❑In other words, the converter simply interconnects the three output
terminals so that the reactive-output currents can flow freely among
them. If the terminals of the ac system are regarded in this context,
the converter establishes a circulating reactive-power exchange
among the phases. However, the real power that the converter
exchanges at its ac terminals with the ac system must, of course, be
supplied to or absorbed from its dc terminals by the dc capacitor.

❑Although reactive power is generated internally by the action of

converter switches, a dc capacitor must still be connected across the
input terminals of the converter.

❑The primary need for the capacitor is to provide a circulating-

current path as well as a voltage source.

4/26/2024 15
❑ The magnitude of the capacitor is chosen so that the dc voltage
across its terminals remains fairly constant to prevent it from
contributing to the ripples in the dc current. The VSC-output voltage
is in the form of a staircase wave into which smooth sinusoidal
current from the ac system is drawn, resulting in slight fluctuations
in the output power of the converter.

❑However, to not violate the instantaneous power-equality constraint

at its input and output terminals, the converter must draw a
fluctuating current from its dc source.

4/26/2024 16
❑Depending on the converter configuration employed, it is
possible to calculate the minimum capacitance required to meet
the system requirements, such as ripple limits on the dc voltage
and the rated-reactivepower support needed by the ac system.

❑The VSC has the same rated-current capability when it

operates with the capacitive- or inductive-reactive current.

❑Therefore, a VSC having a certain MVA rating gives the

STATCOM twice the dynamic range in MVAR (this also
contributes to a compact design). A dc capacitor bank is used to
support (stabilize) the controlled dc voltage needed for the
operation of the VSC.

4/26/2024 17
❑ The reactive power of a STATCOM is produced by means of
power-electronic equipment of the voltage-source-converter
type.

❑ The VSC may be a 2- level or 3-level type, depending on the

required output power and voltage . A number of VSCs are
combined in a multi-pulse connection to form the STATCOM.

❑ In the steady state, the VSCs operate with fundamental-

frequency switching to minimize converter losses. However,
during transient conditions caused by line faults, a pulse width–
modulated (PWM) mode is used to prevent the fault current
from entering the VSCs . In this way, the STATCOM is able to
withstand transients on the ac side without blocking.

4/26/2024 18
4/26/2024 19
4/26/2024 20
V-I Characteristics of STATCOM

❑ The STATCOM can supply both the capacitive and the

inductive compensation and is able to independently control its
output current over the rated maximum capacitive or inductive
range irrespective of the amount of ac-system voltage.

❑The STATCOM can provide full capacitive-reactive power at

any system voltage—even as low as 0.15 pu.

4/26/2024 21
❑The characteristic of a
STATCOM reveals another
strength of this technology: that it
is capable of yielding the full
output of capacitive generation
almost independently of the
system voltage (constant-current
output at lower voltages). This
capability is particularly useful for
situations in which the STATCOM
is needed to support the system
voltage during and after faults
where voltage collapse would
otherwise be a limiting factor.

❑Figure illustrates that the STATCOM has an increased transient

rating in both the capacitive- and the inductive-operating regions.

4/26/2024 22
❑ The maximum attainable transient overcurrent in the capacitive
region is determined by the maximum current turn-off
capability of the converter switches.

❑ In the inductive region, the converter switches are naturally

commutated; therefore, the transient-current rating of the
STATCOM is limited by the maximum allowable junction
temperature of the converter switches.

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❑In practice, the semiconductor switches of the converter are not lossless, so the
energy stored in the dc capacitor is eventually used to meet the internal losses of
the converter, and the dc capacitor voltage diminishes.

❑However, when the STATCOM is used for reactive-power generation, the

converter itself can keep the capacitor charged to the required voltage level. This
task is accomplished by making the output voltages of the converter lag behind
the ac-system voltages by a small angle (usually in the 0.18–0.28 range).

❑In this way, the converter absorbs a small amount of real power from the ac
system to meet its internal losses and keep the capacitor voltage at the desired
level.

❑The same mechanism can be used to increase or decrease the capacitor voltage
and thus, the amplitude of the converter-output voltage to control the var
generation or absorption.

❑The reactive- and real-power exchange between the STATCOM and the ac
system can be controlled independently of each other.

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❑Any combination of real power generation or absorption with var
generation or absorption is achievable if the STATCOM is equipped with
an energy-storage device of suitable capacity, as depicted in Fig.With
this capability, extremely effective control strategies for the modulation
of reactive- and real-output power can be devised to improve the
transient- and dynamic-system-stability limits.

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❑ A STATCOM is comparable to a Synchronous Condenser (or
Compensator) which can supply variable reactive power and
regulate the voltage of the bus where it is connected. The
equivalent circuit of a Synchronous Condenser (SC) is shown in
Fig.1.

Fig.1. Synchronous condenser

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❑ There are many technical advantages of a STATCOM over a SVC. These are
primarily:

(a) Faster response

(b) Requires less space as bulky passive components (such as reactors) are
eliminated

(c) Inherently modular and relocatable

(d) It can be interfaced with real power sources such as battery, fuel cell or
SMES (superconducting magnetic energy storage)

(e) A STATCOM has superior performance during low voltage condition as the
reactive current can be maintained constant (In a SVC, the capacitive reactive
current drops linearly with the voltage at the limit (of capacitive susceptance). It
is even possible to increase the reactive current in a STATCOM under transient
conditions if the devices are rated for the transient overload. In a SVC, the
maximum reactive current is determined by the rating of the passive components
– reactors and capacitors.

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❑ STATCOM is a regulating(poor power factor and poor voltage) device.

❑ Based on a power electronics voltage-source converter and can act as

either a source or sink of reactive AC power.

❑ If connected to a source of power it can also provide active AC power.

❑ STATCOM provides better damping characteristics than the SVC as it is

able to transiently exchange active power with the system

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• Can be based on a voltage-sourced or current-sourced converter
• Figure below shows one with voltage-sourced converter
– driven by a dc voltage source: capacitor

• Effectively an alternating voltage source behind a coupling reactance

– controllable in magnitude
• Can be operated over its full output current range even at very low
(typically 0.2 pu) system voltage levels
• Requires fewer harmonic filters and capacitors than an SVC, and no
reactors
– significantly more compact
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Structure of STATCOM

Basically, the STATCOM

system is comprised of Power
converters, Set of coupling
reactors or a step up
transformer, Controller

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 Advantages of STATCOM

▪The reactive components used in the STATCOM are much smaller than those in the SVC.

▪The characteristics of STATCOM are superior.

▪The output current of STATCOM can be controlled up to the rated maximum capacitive or
inductive range.

▪Reduction of the capacity of semiconductor power converter and capacitor bank to one half
of those for the conventional SVC.

▪Better transient response of the order of quarter cycle.

▪Reduction of harmonic filter capacity.

▪Reduction of size of high value air-cored reactor.

▪Reduction of equipment volume and foot-print.

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4/26/2024 32
4/26/2024 33
 COMPARISON
OF
STATCOM AND SVC CHARACTERISTICS

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(i) V-I characteristics

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(ii) V-Q Characteristics

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EtgkoxJPds

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 (iii)Transient stability

P- δ characteristics with mid-point compensation

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(iv) Response Time

−Td s
Transport lag e
SVC- Between 2.5 ms to 5.0 ms

STATCOM- Between 200 µs to 300 µs

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(v) Capability to exchange real power

For applications requiring active (real) power compensation it is

clear that the STATCOM, in contrast to the SVC, can interface a
suitable energy storage with the AC system for real power
exchange.

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(vi) Operation with unbalanced AC System

❖SVC controls establishes three identical shunt admittances, one

for each phase. Consequently, with unbalanced system voltages the
compensating currents in each phase would become different . It is
possible to control the three compensating admittances individually
by adjusting delay angle of the TCRs so as to make the three
compensating currents identical.

❖However in this case triple-n harmonic content would be

different in each phase and their normal cancellation through delta
connection would not place. This operation mode thus would
generally require the installation of the usually unneeded third
harmonic filters.

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❖The operation of the STATCOM under unbalanced system
conditions is different from that of the SVC, but the consequences
of the such operation are similar.

❖The STATCOM operation is governed by fundamental physical

law requiring that the net instantaneous power at the ac and dc
terminals of the voltage-sourced converters employed must be
always be equal. This is because the converter has no internal
energy storage and thus energy transfer through it is absolutely
direct, and consequently the net instantaneous power at the ac and
dc terminals must be equal.

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 Wave forms illustrating the operation of a STATCOM during LG Fault at
the regulated bus
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(vii) Loss Versus Var output characteristics

❑The loss contribution of power semiconductors and related

components to the total compensator losses is higher for the
STATCOM than for the SVC. This is because presently available
power semiconductor devices with internal turn-off capability
have higher conduction losses than conventional thyristors.

❑ Thus the technological advances probably will have help to

reduce the overall losses of the STATCOM more than those of
the SVC.

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 (viii) Physical size and installation

❑ From the stand point of physical installation, because the

STATCOM not only controls but also internally generates the
reactive output power, the large capacitor and reactor banks with
their associated switchgear and protection, used in conventional
thyristors controlled SVCs, are not needed.

❑ This results in a significant reduction in overall size (about 30 to 40

%) , as well as installation labor and cost.

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 Integrating STATCOM and Battery Energy
Storage System

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ape/2012/676010/

4/26/2024 45
❑Energy Storage Systems (ESS) integrated with FACTS devices like
STATCOM offer improved power system control compared to
traditional methods. This integration allows for active power flow
control between the STATCOM and the point of standard coupling
(PCC), enabling reactive power compensation and energy storage
when power generation exceeds grid limits.

❑Attention has been focused on developing control strategies for

FACTS devices, including STATCOM, SSSC, and UPFC, to
address various power transmission issues. Integrating ESS
enhances the capabilities of these devices, offering independent real
and reactive power absorption or injection into the grid, leading to
more economical and flexible power transmission control.

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❑Combining FACTS devices with ESS results in a more robust and
flexible power transmission controller, which is particularly beneficial
when transmission lines experience intermittent power transfer variations.
This combined system offers superior performance and appeals to
transmission service providers.

❑Energy storage technology is vital in maintaining system

reliability and power quality amidst power system deregulation,
transmission limitations, and generation shortages. ESS provides
benefits such as damping oscillations, responding to load
transients, supplying power during interruptions, and correcting
voltage profiles with rapid reactive power control while allowing
generators to balance the system load.

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 STATCOM + ESS connected to power utility system.

STATCOM + BESS connected to power transmission system.

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 Structure of a BESS connected FACTS in a complete control interface for
maintaining stability.

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 Application of STATCOM With BESS

❑Integration Advantages: Integrating STATCOM with Battery Energy

Storage Systems (BESS) offers numerous power system operation and
control advantages. These include reactive and active power control,
stability enhancement, system security enhancement, integration of
renewable generation, avoidance of new transmission line construction,
power flow congestion management, and providing control mechanisms
for remedial action schemes.

❑Renewable Energy Integration: With the rise of wind power generation,

the intermittent nature of wind poses challenges to grid stability and power
quality. The combination of STATCOM with BESS addresses issues such
as voltage fluctuations, damage to generators, and stability during sudden
disturbances by providing reactive power support and ensuring stable
operation even during fault conditions.

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❑Dynamic Performance Enhancement: Integrating ESS with STATCOM
improves dynamic performance for damping oscillations, with real power
injection being more effective than reactive power injection. This setup is
observed to provide better performance for certain configurations, although
it may involve additional costs.

❑Voltage and Power Flow Management: The combination of STATCOM

and BESS effectively manages voltage variations caused by power flow
fluctuations in wind turbines, optimizing grid stability and power quality.
This integration also allows for load levelling, peak demand energy saving,
subsynchronous oscillation minimization, and transient/dynamic stability
enhancement.

❑DC Capacitor Reduction: An additional advantage of integrating BESS

with STATCOM is the potential reduction in DC link capacitor size, as the
BESS assists in smoothing the battery DC. This feature enhances the
system's overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

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1. STATCOM is an acronym for ________

a) Static Synchronous Compensator

b) Static Energy Compensator
c) Static Synchronous Compartment
d) Static Asynchronous Compensator

2. STATCOM can be a controller exhibiting the property of ________

a) only voltage source

b) only current source
c) voltage source or current source
d) inductive source

3. STATCOM is constructed based on gate turnoff (GTO) thyristors.

a) True
b) False

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 Thank You !

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