Power Flow Control Using Series Voltage Source Converters in Distribution Grids

Abstract

This study presents an application for a series VSC (voltage source converter) in distribution grids for power flow management. Series devices have been widely studied for FACTS (flexible AC transmission systems), however, more recently these devices have gained increased interest in applications for loading balance in medium voltage distribution grids. As the number of distributed generation (DG) units increases, increasing the capacity and reliability of distribution grids while maximizing the benefits of installed DGs and loading behavior is an ever more important task. In this paper, we describe a test system and control proposals for a practical application of series converters interconnecting two distribution feeders at 13.8 kV under load variation disturbances. This approach provides solutions when installed at the end of distribution lines by interconnecting two feeders, resulting in capacity increases in the feeders without needing grid reconfigurations using a small-rated series VSC.