Comparative Review of Flexible Alternative Current Transmission System Devices in the Smart Grid

The application of the flexible alternative current transmission system (FACTS) devices has been playing an important role in improving the flexibility, stability and intelligence of the smart gird. Until now, various kinds of FACTS devices are proposed, studied and utilized by the academic and the industry. Most literatures provide an in-depth study on one single kind of devices, without comparisons between different devices from the aspect of their technical performances as well as economic costs. In this paper, the current FACTS devices are investigated, from the aspect of the technical performance, the working principle as well as the industrial application. Moreover, the relationships are demonstrated and comparisons are made between different kinds of FACTS devices. This paper offers a comprehensive knowledge of the FACTS devices and introduces the new process of their application in the smart gird. It is also helpful for the researchers and engineers to choose suitable FACTS devices to satisfy the demand of the smart grid.