A real-time implementation of optimal reactive power flow

Abstract

The application of optimal reactive power flow (ORPF) problem to the NB (New Brunswick) Power company are presented. The potential benefits and the real-time implementation problems of ORPF are discussed. The execution of ORPF program for NE Power network has shown two major benefits: (1) the improvement in the voltage profile and voltage stability, and (2) the savings in active power loss. The improvement in voltage profile can cause less violations and a more stable system from the voltage point of view. A reduction in active power loss gained from ORPF can save a significant amount of money. The total saving for year 1995 predicted in study was in excess of $1100000, and this was supported by the real-time test. These savings can be gained simultaneously with the improvement of the voltage profiles.