Practical Considerations for Controller Upgrade of Dynamic Braking Resistors at BC Hydro's GMS Generating Station

This paper discusses the practical considerations for controller upgrade of the dynamic braking resistors (BRs) installed at BC Hydro's Gordon M. Shrum (GMS) Generating Station. Originally installed in 1960s and one replaced in 1987, the three banks of 138 kV 200 MW dynamic BRs have served as a safety net in addition to BC Hydro's EMS-based Remedial Action Schemes (RAS). However, due to technology obsolesce, the GMS BRs have been observed with limited functionality in some recent contingency events. This paper first investigates the operational performance of the existing control panel of GMS BRs, and then recommends functional requirements with improved controller features. Computer studies demonstrate that BC Hydro's GMS BR scheme, based on the upgraded controller, is adequate, reliable, and effective in: 1) improving the Peace regional system transient stability, and 2) providing temporary over-frequency protection.