ILP-based multistage placement of PMUs with dynamic monitoring constraints

Abstract

This paper addresses two aspects of the optimal Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) placement problem. Firstly, an ILP (Integer Linear Programing) model for the optimal multistage placement of PMUs is proposed. The approach finds the number of PMUs and its placement in separate stages, while maximizing the system observability at each period of time. The model takes into account: the available budget per stage, the power system expansion along with the multistage PMU placement, redundancy in the PMU placement against the failure of a PMU or its communication links, user defined time constraints for PMU allocation, and the zero-injection effect. Secondly, it is proposed a methodology to identify buses to be observed for dynamic stability monitoring. Two criteria, which are inter-area observability and intra-area observability, have been considered. The methodology identifies coherent groups in large power systems by using a new technique based on graph theory. The technique requires neither full stability studies nor a predefined number of groups. Also, a centrality criterion is used to select a bus for monitoring each coherent area and supervise inter-area oscillations. Then, PMUs are located to ensure complete observability inside each area (intra-area monitoring). Methodology is applied on the 14-bus test system, the 57-bus test system with expansion plans, and the 16-machine 68 bus test system. Results indicate that the optimization model finds the optimal number of PMUs when the PMU placement by stages is required, while the observability at each stage is maximized. Additionally, it is shown that expansion plans and particular requirements of observability can be considered in the model without increasing the number of required PMUs, and the zero-injection effect, which reduces the number of PMUs, can be considered in the model.