Optimizing the transient response of voltage source converters used for mitigating voltage collapse problems by means of real time digital simulation

Shunt-connected voltage controllers such as STATCOMs have the potential to mitigate voltage collapse problems in distribution systems with heavy induction motor loadings by injecting reactive current into the AC system. In networks with very low X/R ratios, the addition of active (real) power by the STATCOM is required and may be provided by superconducting energy storage systems (SMES). This paper presents a real time network simulation model of a STATCOM-SMES system and shows how control parameters can be optimized for fast transient response by combining simulations with sophisticated optimization strategies. It is concluded that real-time simulation, possibly also in conjunction with hardware-in-the-loop experiments, can aid optimal use of future static compensators in advanced electric power systems.