Harmonic Performance Analysis of Static Var Compensator Connected to the Power Transmission Network

Abstract

The static var compensator (SVC) is a device which is designed to compensate reactive power, increase voltage stability and to reduce voltage fluctuations. Thyristor controlled reactors (TCRs) are composed of reactors in series with bidirectional pair of thyristors. Current through reactors can be continuously controlled by changing the firing angle of thyristor valves, thus the inductive power can be easily controlled. Typical applications of TCRs in AC systems are voltage stabilization and temporary overvoltage reduction, stability improvement, damping of power oscillations and load balancing. In this paper, harmonic performance analysis of SVC equipped with TCRs is presented. SVCs utilizing TCRs generate harmonic currents and therefore it is necessary to determine the effect of harmonics generated by the SVC on the power system and its elements. This includes interaction of the SVC with the system, the SVC performance under balanced and unbalanced operating conditions and finally, evaluation of countermeasures such as installation of harmonic filters. In order to carry out these analysis, it is necessary to determine harmonic characteristics of the network at the point of SVC connection, existing levels of harmonics, and to know appropriate standards regarding acceptable harmonic levels in the power system. Since harmonic distortions in the system are caused by the interaction between SVC and the system, all system contingencies which may affect system’s frequency response should be evaluated. Detailed power system model should be considered to make sure that parallel resonance points of system do not directly coincide with characteristic harmonics from the SVC. Harmonics generated by SVCs are largely dependent on the operating point within the SVC characteristic. A conservative approach is to use the maximum values of harmonics generated within the spectrum irrespective of the operating point. The results of harmonic performance analysis are important for appropriate design of SVC. Harmonic performance analysis related to SVC application which are presented in this paper include the determination of: frequency response of the transmission network impedance required for the specification and design of filters; the effects of SVC generated harmonics on the power system; the overall filter requirements and countermeasures to reduce harmonics to acceptable levels.