Inverter-Based DG STATCOM Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility companies face excessive electric power transmission and distribution losses due to voltage level inefficiencies, with traditional methods providing coarse and non-precise control, leading to significant revenue loss and higher emissions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system-wide coordinated control using inverter-based Distributed Generators (DGs) as Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOMs) to dynamically regulate voltage levels in power transmission and distribution networks by exchanging controlled reactive power with the network, minimizing line losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional voltage control methods (transformer taps, voltage regulators, bus capacitors) are used, then voltage control is provided, 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 can dynamically and precisely control voltage by injecting or absorbing reactive power, providing continuous and accurate voltage regulation that minimizes line losses without the coarse control limitations of mechanical devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from mechanical position adjustments to electrical reactive power injection/absorption. By controlling the reactive power output of inverter-based DGs, the system achieves precise and rapid voltage control, enabling optimal minimization of line losses through dynamic parameter adjustment rather than fixed mechanical settings.
2Loss of energy
If inverter-based DGs operate as STATCOMs to regulate voltage, then line losses are minimized, but inverter capacity is consumed after real power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes inverter-based distributed generators multi-functional by enabling them to simultaneously perform real power generation and reactive power compensation. The inverters first generate real power to meet local or grid demands, then utilize their remaining capacity to provide voltage regulation by injecting or absorbing reactive power, thereby minimizing line losses. This dual functionality maximizes the utility of inverter capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous useful action by maintaining real power generation while simultaneously providing voltage control services. The inverter operates continuously, first delivering real power and then using its available headroom to provide reactive power support, ensuring that the useful action of minimizing line losses occurs continuously whenever inverter capacity remains after real power generation.
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 profiles across the network, providing cost-effective and precise voltage control, and enabling inverter-based DGs to generate additional revenue through reduced line losses.
Implementation Method 1
said at least one power generation facility operates as a static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) to regulate (control) the voltage at a point of common coupling for each power generation facility towards said desired voltage profile through exchange (injection or absorption) of controlled reactive power with said power transmission and distribution network
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides systems, methods, and devices relating to the provision of system-wide coordinated control voltage regulation support in power transmission and distribution networks using multiple inverter based power generation facilities, which are coupled to the power transmission and distribution networks for minimizing transmission and distribution line losses. The invention uses a novel control method of inverter 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, thereby decreasing system line losses.