Undergraduate Research on Design Considerations for a GMD Mitigation System

Abstract

Geomagnetic disturbances (GMDs) are the result of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun. CMEs, such as solar flares, alter the magnetic and electric field of the earth. These changes induce DC voltage sources superimposed on transmission lines. The voltages result in the introduction of quasi-DC geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) to the AC synchronous power grid. These currents can cause half cycle saturation of transformers, harmonics, reactive power losses, and in extreme situations, widespread power outages. In this work, a planning-based GMD mitigation strategy is developed for large power systems. GIC blocking devices and system topology are leveraged in the design of strategies and systems to maintain preferable system operations despite a GMD. Simulation cases based on GIC blocking device installation and islanding plans will be used to create a strategy to minimize the effects of GMDs on the power grid.