The feasibility of static compensators for single-phase distribution feeders

This paper is an investigation into the use of small static compensators for the control of voltage on single-phase distribution feeders. A candidate feeder system is examined to determine the type and size of compensator required. The compensator is compared with the present state of the art. Through digital and network analyser simulations, the concept of a bank of thyristor switched capacitors arranged in binary units is shown to provide very fast, transient-free voltage control. In steady state, the voltage can be controlled to within 1% of the nominal system voltage. The economic analysis of the proposed compensator has shown it to be cost-effective compared to step voltage regulators and switched capacitor banks, for the control of steady state voltage. Where quality of power is a problem that cannot be met with existing equipment, and the alternatives are new or rebuilt distribution lines, the compensator is clearly a feasible solution.