Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System Devices Research Articles

An easy method for simultaneously enhancing power system voltage and angle stability using STATCOM

The global electricity demand is growing rapidly and is expected to double by 2050. This growth requires significantly expanding the current high-voltage transmission lines, which is a long-term and costly solution. As an alternative, utilities use advanced technologies like Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices as a temporary measure, postponing the expansion. However, it is necessary to locate these devices in the network properly to avoid negative outcomes. Traditional methods for FACTS placement focus on voltage profile improvement and power loss reduction, neglecting rotor angle stability. This can lead to oscillatory instability, especially in weak power grids. To address this issue, the paper proposes a simple approach to optimize the placement of shunt FACTS devices in power systems. The method improves both voltage and rotor angle stability without compromising power loss. The proposed approach considers rotor angle stability constraints, which is essential for system stability during transient events. The study was demonstrated on Nigeria’s 50-bus 330 kV power system, with results indicating a 31% improvement in angle stability with an enhanced voltage profile. The method is straightforward, non-iterative, and provides a cost-effective solution for FACTS device placement in power systems.

FACTS Devices as a Solution to Power Industries Problems: A Review

With an ever-increasing demand for power and establishment of new industries with high load demand, the need to for constant upgrade of powers system network is high. Such transmission networks are prone to external disturbances from loads, environment and other sources which leads to low power quality. Sudden application or removal of large loads. Large loads are known to draw more reactive power than the generated reactive power which lead to reactive power imbalance which can lead to total system collapse. In this paper, a critical review of how Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices are used to mitigate such issues to ensure power quality is done. Previous work on the integration of different FACTS devices were review to establish the advantage of FACTS devices over conventional solutions to power transmission problems.

A New-Fangled Approach for Optimal Placement of Facts Controllers in a Hybridized System

This paper proposes a novel approach for Optimal Power Flow (OPF) problems in power systems by integrating the optimal placement of Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices with a hybrid renewable energy system comprising wind and photovoltaic (PV). The objective is to optimize the placement of FACTS devices to simultaneously minimize power loss, voltage deviation and reduce gross cost. To achieve this goal, the Enhanced Multi – Strategies Sparrow Search Algorithm (EMSSA) is employed, which combines multiple optimization strategies inspired by the collaborative foraging behavior of sparrows. By considering multiple objectives, including power loss reduction, voltage deviation reduction, and gross cost minimization, the proposed methodoloty aims to identify optimal locations for installing FACTS devices such as SVC (Static Var Compensator), TCSC (Thyristor Controlled Seris Compensator), TCPS (Thyristor Controlled Phase Shifter). The results showcase the capability of the proposed methodology to achieve significant improvements in power system performance, thereby contributing to the efficient and sustainable operation of modern power grids. This research also provides valuable insights for power system operators and planners to make decisions regarding the deployment of FACTS devices and the integration of renewable energy sources.

Evaluation of FACTS Contributions Using Branch Flow Model and Newton–Raphson Algorithm

Flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTSs) have been widely incorporated in electric power systems in order to control system parameters. This paper proposes the modeling of four FACTS devices, using the Branch Flow Model (BF) as an optimization problem to reduce the complexity of the Newton–Raphson (NR) load flow code with FACTS devices. The devices are represented as variable impedances, as a function of a firing angle, and as voltage source converters (VSCs) located on the buses and transmission lines. This proposed model solves the problem associated with the selection of appropriate initial conditions of the parameters of each device that guarantee convergence. The model is validated by evaluating its percentage deviation with respect to the NR method, using the standard test systems, IEEE 5-bus, IEEE 14-bus, IEEE 30-bus, and IEEE 57-bus systems.

Substations power quality improvement by flexible alternating current transmission system devices

<p>The increase in load demand has a negative impact on power system quality, reliability, and stability. Transporting reactive power from the generating side to the distribution side reduces the transmission line’s capacity to deliver active power to loads. In conventional power systems, during faults or sudden loads, the load flow changes and causes extra voltage drop. Reactive power compensation at the load side can improve voltage quality at distribution busbars, but the conventional compensation method doesn’t offer the required flexibility. With the development of the power electronics industry, flexible alternating current transmission system (FACTS) devices have been introduced. There are many categories for FACTS controllers, including series, shunt, and hybrid, which can exhibit dynamic operating characteristics. In this paper, two types of FACTS devices (STATCOM and fixed capacitor-thyristor-controlled reactors (FCTCR)) have been used to improve voltage profile in a part of Iraq’s high voltage power system during unusual operating conditions, such as sudden loads and the absence generation. Load flow calculations were conducted to determine the critical bus, and then the performance of the FACTS devices was investigated during heavy loading when the devices were connected separately to the critical bus. The voltage drop in the bus was 1.58%, which reduced to 0.78% with STATCOM and 0.96% with FCTCR.</p>

A mini review on optimal reactive power dispatch incorporating renewable energy sources and flexible alternating current transmission system

AbstractThe electrical power system (EPS) has been heavily stressed due to high load demand. It operates close to the total capacity limits, resulting in voltage instability that can lead to voltage collapse. In this regard, incorporating flexible alternating current transmission system (FACTS) devices and renewable energy sources (RESs) to obtain the optimum values of the generator voltage, reactive compensation, and transformer tab in optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) is essential in increasing the reliability and safety of the system. ORPD involves discrete and continuous variables, which are nonlinear, noncontinuous, non-convex, and complex problems. The objective functions of ORPD are reduction in active power loss (Ploss), voltage deviation, and voltage profile enhancement. This paper presents a recent advancement of the ORPD problem, mathematical formulation of the objectives function, and a summary of various metaheuristic optimization methods (single and hybrid) used to solve the ORPD problems. The hybrid method combines two or more methods to improve the demerits of one method to obtain a quality solution to a problem. This review covered incorporating FACTS devices and RESs used in solving the ORPD problem to reduce the active Ploss and improve the voltage profile in the EPS. The benefits of FACTS devices and RESs are also discussed. Also, various metaheuristic algorithms (single, modified, and hybrid) employed to solve the ORPD problem were discussed. The future direction for researchers in this field was provided to give insight into the applicability and performance. Overall, this research explores different techniques used in solving ORPD problems from the optimization point of view to incorporating RESs and FACTS devices to obtain quality solutions. Some existing methods do not guarantee an optimum solution, but incorporating RESs and FACTS devices will help attain the best solution to the problem for better power system operation to improve system reliability and voltage profile. Based on the review journal, it can be concluded that hybrid techniques offer efficient quality solutions to the ORPD problem.

Allocation and Sizing of DSTATCOM with Renewable Energy Systems and Load Uncertainty Using Enhanced Gray Wolf Optimization

Over the last decade, flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) have been crucial in ensuring optimal power distribution within modern power systems. A vital component of FACTS devices is the distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM), which is essential for maintaining a reliable power supply. It is commonly used for reactive power compensation, voltage regulation, and harmonic reduction. Determining the appropriate size and placement of DSTATCOMs is vital to ensuring their efficiency. This study introduces the improved gray wolf optimizer (I-GWO), a refined version of the classical gray wolf optimization (GWO) method. The I-GWO incorporates a dimension learning-based hunting (DLH) strategy to preserve population diversity, balance exploration and exploitation, and prevent the premature convergence of classical GWO. In this research, the I-GWO was applied to determine the optimum allocation and sizing of the DSTATCOMs, considering system constraints, including those presented by the intermittent and stochastic nature of the load and renewable energy resources, specifically wind and solar energy. The suggested approach was successfully tested on 33-, 69-, and 85-bus distribution systems and then compared with existing studies. The results demonstrated the I-GWO-based approach’s superiority in terms of reducing power losses, improving voltage profiles, and enhancing voltage stability.

Optimization of position and rating of shunt and series connected FACTS devices for transmission congestion management in deregulated power networks

<abstract><p>Transmission congestions are caused by electricity trading between generators and distribution companies in a deregulated environment. Power system operation and security in liberalized scenarios are maintained by removing branch overloads. A flexible alternating current transmission system (FACTS) controller is installed in a suitable location to redistribute the power flow among the transmission lines so that the power flows are brought within the capacity of the lines. In this work, series-connected thyristor-controlled switched compensators (TCSCs) and shunt-connected Volt-Ampere reactive (VAR) static compensators (SVCs) are installed in appropriate locations to alter the power flow patterns and to remove overloads. It is proposed to reduce the overload of transmission lines by locating series and shunt connected FACTS devices at proper locations. The size and location of TCSC and SVC devices greatly affect their ability to meet a congestion management goal. An optimization process optimizes the location and size of these devices to maximize the congestion mitigation benefits of the TCSC and SVC controllers. In this work, the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) is used to optimize the value of the objective function by appropriately choosing the location and size of the FACTS controllers. This algorithm has a few parameters that are tuned to give the best overall results. A WOA-based method is proposed to optimize the size and location of the FACTS devices and is implemented on the IEEE-30 bus test case. The results were compared and found to be improved with those of other algorithms such as the particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) and the firefly algorithm (FFA).</p></abstract>

Supplementary damping controller design for FACTS devices using the Fuzzy Elman Wavelet Neural Network

AbstractThe occurrence of inter‐area oscillations in a power system is challenging to prevent. Thus, it is imperative to dampen inter‐area oscillations due to their potential to cause various instability problems. In this study, the Fuzzy Elman Wavelet Neural Network (FEWNN) was created as a novel neuro‐fuzzy network that combines the beneficial features of the Wavelet Neural Network (WNN), Takagi‐Sugeno‐Kang (TSK) fuzzy model, and cross‐coupled feedbacks inspired by the Elman Neural Network (ENN). Compared to alternative fuzzy wavelet networks, the representations of high‐order nonlinear dynamic systems in the proposed novel FEWNN are more effective, the training speed and computational power are greater, and interval type‐2 fuzzy membership functions are able to manage uncertainties in the power system. This paper uses FEWNN to develop a novel method for damping inter‐area oscillations caused by flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) employing a supplementary damping controller (SDC) based on direct adaptive control theory (DACT). The proposed SDC is integrated into a Static Synchronous Series Compensator (SSSC) in a two‐machine two‐area power system and Kundor's four‐machine two‐area power system, as well as a Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) in Kundor's four‐machine two‐area power system. In conclusion, the damping power of the system is compared to that of other SDCs presented in recent studies. The MATLAB/SIMULINK environment was used to conduct all simulations for this work.

Improvement of voltage stability and loadability of power system employing the placement of unified power flow controller using artificial neural network

<span lang="EN-US">This paper proposes a voltage stability and loadability improvement model of power systems by incorporating the optimal placement of flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) using an artificial neural network (ANN) called OPFANN. The key aspect of this model is to identify the weakest lines which having the most probability of voltage collapse utilized for placing FACTS devices. As installing a new power system network with rapidly increasing power demand cannot be possible, the operator usually operates the power system close to the stability limit. In this regard, continuous monitoring and improvement of system voltage stability and loadability of the existing system are vital issues for energy management systems nowadays. However, the proposed OPFANN introduces a more straightforward and faster scheme for voltage stability monitoring systems using ANN. Intelligent and reliable data samples have been designed to train the ANN based on two-line voltage stability indices (LVSI) techniques. Compared with other works, OPFANN effectively improves voltage stability and loadability at the load point by installing the unified power flow controller (UPFC) FACTS devices to the weakest lines. OPFANN can provide information on voltage collapse points using ANN and reduce the further computational cost of LVSI. Finally, OPFANN ensures faster and more secure operation of the power system.</span>

Voltage Stability Assessment and Control Using Indices and FACTS: A Comparative Review

The problem of voltage stability is becoming a more acute and indispensable topic given the major and sensitive role it plays in the electrical system. It can be considered a major factor in the initiation of blackouts around the world. Hence, the need for reliable and fast tools to detect and control the approach of instability points throughout the network, namely, voltage stability indices and flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) devices for the control and management of the electrical network. In this paper, an update on the existing blackouts in the world has been presented. Based on the brief overview of the most significant definitions of voltage stability presented in this work, a new definition of voltage stability has been proposed. A detailed comparative study on voltage stability analysis methods has been conducted. Furthermore, an exhaustive discussion on the various voltage stability indices and FACTS devices existing in the literature with their contribution to voltage stability prediction and improvement has been proposed.

Investigation of the Transfer Capability of the Nigerian 330 kV, 58-bus Power System Network using FACTS Devices

Over the years, the Nigerian power system is beset with lingering problems, which include severe power losses, as well as very low transfer capability of the transmission network to evacuate power from generating stations to the load at the distribution level. Presently, the Nigerian power industry is undergoing restructuring, especially in the generation and distribution systems. In view of the deregulation of electricity distribution and marketing, the traditional practices of the Nigerian power system are undergoing changes to address the identified problems in the existing power system. Specifically, better utilization of the existing power transmission network to improve on the system transfer capability and minimize cost is one of the key focuses of the deregulation agenda. This work deals with the enhancement of transfer capability of Nigerian 58-bus, 330kV network using FACTS (Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System) devices. FACTS devices are used for controlling transmission voltage, power flow, reducing reactive power losses, and damping of power system oscillations for high power transfer capability. Three FACTS devices; Thyristor Controlled Series Compensator (TCSC), Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC), and Interline Power Flow Controller (IPFC) were used to investigate the transfer capability of the Nigerian 58-bus power system network. NEPLAN was employed in this work to model the Nigerian 58-bus system and optimally placed the FACTS devices at the weakest buses that were found out through the computation for available transfer capability (ATC) after continuation power flow (CPF) simulation was completed. MATLAB codes were developed and used to calculate power transfer capability of the network without and with FACTS devices. Comparing the three FACTS devices, the results obtained showed that UPFC enhanced the power transfer capability of the network than TCSC and IPFC.

Optimal Siting and Sizing of FACTS in Distribution Networks Using the Black Widow Algorithm

The problem regarding the optimal placement and sizing of different FACTS (flexible alternating current transmission systems) in electrical distribution networks is addressed in this research by applying a master–slave optimization approach. The FACTS analyzed correspond to the unified power flow controller (UPFC), the thyristor-controlled shunt compensator (TCSC, also known as the thyristor switched capacitor, or TSC), and the static var compensator (SVC). The master stage is entrusted with defining the location and size of each FACTS device using hybrid discrete-continuous codification through the application of the black widow optimization (BWO) approach. The slave stage corresponds to the successive approximations power flow method based on the admittance grid formulation, which allows determining the expected costs of the energy losses for a one-year operation period. The numerical results in the IEEE 33-, 69-, and 85-bus grids demonstrate that the best FACTS device for locating in distribution networks is the SVC, given that, when compared to the UPFC and the TCSC, it allows for the best possible reduction in the equivalent annual investment and operating cost. A comparative analysis with the General Algebraic Modeling System software, with the aim to solve the exact mixed-integer nonlinear programming model, demonstrated the proposed BWO approach’s effectiveness in determining the best location and size for the FACTS in radial distribution networks. Reductions of about 12.63% and 13.97% concerning the benchmark cases confirmed that the SVC is the best option for reactive power compensation in distribution grids.

Review of FACTS technologies and applications for accelerating penetration of wind energies in the power system

AbstractConventional energy resource problems made power system planners apply more renewable energy sources (RESs) in the power system. RESs have a significant impact on fulfilling the world's energy demand, protecting the environment at least in the exploration phase, and providing energy reliability as well as security for the new generation of power grids. In this regard, wind power generation is considered a promising solution. However, by increasing the share of wind power generation units in the power sector, some challenges, such as voltage problems, transient stability, increasing system losses, and line congestions can occur. Consequently, an alternative solution is required to accelerate wind power units' connections to the grid by preventing the problems caused by the penetration of wind power. In this regard, Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices can play an important role while they can improve power grid dynamic performance. This paper presents a review of the optimization techniques applied to accelerate the penetration of wind energy by exploiting FACTS devices. The topic identifies the objectives and optimization formulations, as well as schemes and models available in the published literature. This survey gives noteworthy insights to the researchers to cover available solutions in these regards. The literature in the field is summarized in different aspects, such as FACTS technology, objective functions, constraints, optimization methods, planning or operation purposes, and load flow types. At each aspect, a comparison is derived to recognize the most important issues. The result of the review is the finding of future work and contributions which can be done in the field of wind energy integration acceleration using FACTS devices and the output of the paper can be used as a guide for researchers to find a new path for research in this area.

A transient stability analysis method for wind power system with thyristor controlled phase shifting transformer based on branch potential energy index

With the growing usage of renewable energy technologies like wind power and photovoltaics, and the increased integration of FACTS (Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System) devices into the power system, the transient characteristics of the evolving power system undergo changes that require appropriate analysis methods. As a new type of FACTS device, TCPST (Thyristor Controlled Phase Shifting Transformer) is introduced to facilitate the superior operation of renewable energy sources by controlling the power flow of access branches. From the perspective of branches, the dynamic characteristics of renewable energy sources and TCPST might be uniformly studied and simply calculated in the transient stability analysis. Therefore, the paper proposes a transient stability analysis method for wind power systems with TCPST based on the branch potential energy index. First, considering the variation characteristics of branch potential energy, this paper employed the stability index to analyze the transient stability of branches and the system by finding vulnerable lines. Then, based on the stability index, the paper investigates the influence of wind turbine removal, the installation and control parameter adjustment of TCPST on the transient stability of wind power systems. The simulation results in PSAT demonstrate that the removal of a proper amount of wind turbine post-fault and the installation of TCPST can improve the transient stability of the wind power system. Furthermore, it can also be improved by reasonably adjusting the TCPST control parameters. All simulation results are verified by the time domain simulation method.

Analysis of Influence of Vertical Vibration on Natural Heat Convection Coefficients from Horizontal Concentric and Eccentric Annulus

Renewable energy is crucial for reducing emissions and meeting future energy demands. However, due to concerns regarding intermittent supply, integrating RE into a multi-microgrid system might pose various power system problems, for instance, unstable electrical power output. As a result, increased load reactive power demands result in voltage losses during peak load demand. Therefore, it can be minimized by utilizing Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices in electrical networks, which are designed to strengthen the stability and control of power transfer and act as a controller for the AC transmission specification, which also provides speed and flexibility for certain applications. By identifying the need to implement solutions that can sustain the electric power quality of a microgrid, this paper presents a review of various method approaches which could be used to evaluate the impact of integrating the multi-microgrid systems with FACTS devices for voltage profile improvement and real power loss reduction in power system. In this paper, a comprehensive study is carried out for optimum multi-microgrid placement, considering the minimization of power losses, enhancement of voltage stability, and improvement of the voltage profile. An attempt has been made to summarize the existing approaches and present a detailed discussion that can help the energy planners decide which objective and planning factors need more attention for optimum locations and capacity for multi-microgrid and FACTS devices.

Optimal Power Flow Using a Hybrid Improved Harris Hawks Optimization Algorithm-Pattern Search Method

The optimal power flow (OPF) problems for effective power system planning and operations are solved using a hybrid Improved Harris Hawks Optimization and Pattern Search (PS) (hIHHO-PS) algorithm in this research. The OPF problem in this paper is considered minimization of non-convex active power generation fuel cost (NAPGFC), total active power losses (TPL), shunt capacitor cost (SCC), voltage variation (VD), and maximization of social welfare (SW) and loadability factor (LF) objective functions. The proposed hIHHO-PS algorithm was tested on different benchmark test functions (unimodal (UM), multi-modal (MM), and fixed-dimension MM functions) and IEEE 30 bus test system, and obtained results are validated with existing algorithms. These results show the proposed hIHHO-PS algorithm outperformed the others. Further, to enhance the OPF results, optimally place the multi-line Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices (unified power flow controller (UPFC) and generalized unified power flow controller (GUPFC)) using severity index. Furthermore, test the effects of control modes of multi-line UPFC and GUPFC devices on OPF results. These results show the multi-line FACTS devices with control mode enhance the OPF results, especially GUPFC in control mode operation.

The Impact of Integrating Multi-Microgrid System with FACTS Devices for Voltage Profile Enhancement and Real Power Loss Reduction in Power System: A Review

Renewable energy is crucial for reducing emissions and meeting future energy demands. However, due to concerns regarding intermittent supply, integrating RE into a multi-microgrid system might pose various power system problems, for instance, unstable electrical power output. As a result, increased load reactive power demands result in voltage losses during peak load demand. Therefore, it can be minimized by utilizing Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices in electrical networks, which are designed to strengthen the stability and control of power transfer and act as a controller for the AC transmission specification, which also provides speed and flexibility for certain applications. By identifying the need to implement solutions that can sustain the electric power quality of a microgrid, this paper presents a review of various method approaches which could be used to evaluate the impact of integrating the multi-microgrid systems with FACTS devices for voltage profile improvement and real power loss reduction in power system. In this paper, a comprehensive study is carried out for optimum multi-microgrid placement, considering the minimization of power losses, enhancement of voltage stability, and improvement of the voltage profile. An attempt has been made to summarize the existing approaches and present a detailed discussion that can help the energy planners decide which objective and planning factors need more attention for optimum locations and capacity for multi-microgrid and FACTS devices.

Traveling Wave-Based Fault Localization in FACTS-Compensated Transmission Line via Signal Decomposition Techniques

Modern power systems are structurally complex and are vulnerable to undesirable events like faults. In the event of faults in transmission line, accurate fault location improves restoration process, thereby enhancing the reliability of the overall system. Fault location methods (FLMs) are tools which assist in identifying fault locations quickly. However, the accuracy of these FLMs gets affected in the presence of flexible alternating current transmission system (FACTS) devices. Therefore, in this work, the performance of four different signal decomposition techniques aided traveling wave aided FLMs are qualitatively compared in the context of fault localization in FACTS-compensated systems. FLMs based on intrinsic time decomposition (ITD), empirical mode decomposition (EMD), S-transform (ST), and estimation of signal parameters via rotational invariance technique (ESPRIT) are investigated. The accuracy of FLMs is tested for different cases of series, shunt, and series-shunt FACTS-compensated systems. A 500 kV system employed with 100 MVAr FACTS device is used for simulation. The instant of arrival wave at end of transmission line is from all aforementioned FLMs. The obtained ATWs are used in fault localization. Further, the associated percentage errors are calculated. The results suggest that EMD and ESPRIT-based FLMs are more accurate than others.

Voltage stability and power loss minimization with UPFC using heuristic and hybrid heuristic methods

Present-day power systems have highly complex and stressed operating conditions owing to insufficient reactive power to meet the required power demand. This leads to increased real power and reactive power losses, as well as voltage instability within a power system. To achieve the flexible operation of the power system, Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices have been employed. The optimal location of FACTS devices influences the system's performance and significantly affects line/bus reactive power flows. Consequently, the line or bus voltage profiles have been improved, leading to a reduction in power losses. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) heuristic methods and HFPSO Hybrid heuristic methods have been used to identify the weakest bus/branch for the suitable placement of UPFC devices, improving voltage stability. This paper discusses a more significant reduction in power losses in a MATLAB environment. Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices address reactive power challenges in power systems and enhance operational flexibility. Strategic placement using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and HFPSO Hybrid methods identifies weak points, optimizing Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) placement for improved voltage stability. UPFC integration strategically reduces real and reactive power losses, improving power transmission efficiency. This enhances line and bus voltage profiles, addressing instability and significantly reducing overall power losses. The paper offers a detailed analysis of the power system, highlighting the synergy between FACTS devices, heuristic optimization, and power loss reduction. Simulations in MATLAB validate the proposed methodology, demonstrating a noteworthy improvement in power system performance.