A proposed benchmark model for wind energy transmission systems

The results of developing a transient stability benchmark model are presented. This benchmark model represents the effects of areas with large wind generation. The proposed benchmark system is based on the transmission network in the south-central region of the US. The model is first derived based on transmission interconnections, conventional and wind generation and the associated geographical information. Generating station and transmission geographical results were determined from the U.S. Energy Information Administration maps features (EIA). Steady-state power flow analysis is performed to check the reasonableness of the results in terms of the impact on the surrounding 345 kV transmission grid. The power flow analysis is also used to establish the initial conditions for subsequent transient stability analysis. Fault conditions were evaluated under large wind generation conditions using small-signal (eigenvalue) analysis. The results suggest that the model captures the principle effects of wind generation related transients and power flows. This method of model development results in a benchmark system that allows system planners to evaluate the impacts on power system reliability associated with wind energy transmission networks. The results suggest that the model is realistic and somewhat accurate. This is one of the first benchmark systems for wind energy transmission networks. The use of a realistic wind energy benchmark system is of utmost importance as wind energy systems have certain characteristics that need to be accounted for when developing new technologies for such systems.