DG Inverter STATCOM Control for Lower Grid Line Losses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility companies face excessive electric power transmission and distribution losses due to voltage level control methods that are coarse and lack precision, resulting in significant revenue loss and higher emissions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system-wide coordinated control of multiple inverter-based Distributed Generators (DGs) operating as Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOMs) to dynamically regulate voltage and minimize line losses by exchanging controlled reactive power using their inverter capacity after real power generation or absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional voltage control methods (transformer taps, voltage regulators, bus capacitors) are used, then voltage levels can be controlled, but the control is coarse and not precise enough to minimize line losses optimally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical voltage control devices (transformer taps, voltage regulators) with inverter-based distributed generators that use power electronic converters. These inverters provide precise, rapid, and continuous voltage control by converting DC power to AC power at controlled voltage levels, eliminating the coarse step-wise control of mechanical devices and enabling optimal minimization of line losses.
2Loss of energy
If inverter-based DGs operate as STATCOMs to provide precise voltage control, then line losses are minimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes inverter-based distributed generators perform multiple functions: they simultaneously provide real power generation to the grid and reactive power compensation through STATCOM operation. The same inverter hardware and control system are used for both primary power generation and secondary voltage regulation, eliminating the need for separate voltage control devices and reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced control capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces system line losses by optimizing voltage levels across the network, providing cost-effective and precise voltage control, and opening up revenue opportunities for DGs through reduced transmission and distribution losses.
Implementation Method 1
regulating (controlling) the voltage at a point of common coupling for each power generation facility towards the desired voltage profile through exchange (injection or absorption) of controlled reactive power with the power transmission and distribution network
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides systems, methods, and devices relating to the provision of system-wide coordinated voltage regulation support in power transmission and distribution networks using multiple inverter-based based power generation or absorption facilities, which are coupled to the power transmission and distribution networks for minimizing transmission and distribution line losses and for performing Conservation Voltage Reduction. The invention uses a novel control method of inverter-based based Distributed Generators as Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) in a way that provides a dynamic voltage regulation/control with the inverter capacity remaining after real power generation or absorption, thereby decreasing line losses, performing Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR), reducing load demand, decreasing peak demand, and reducing energy consumption.