Reduction of Three-Phase Voltage Unbalance Subject to Special Winding Connections of Two Single-Phase Distribution Transformers of a Microgrid System Using a Designed D-STATCOM Controller

The U-V or V-V winding connections of two single-phase distribution transformers are widely utilized in distribution systems to deliver power to various three-phase and/or single-phase loads. Such special winding connections of distribution transformers can cause three-phase voltage unbalance in distributions systems, which could also lead to unexpected trip of ground relay, extra power losses on distribution-system lines, reduced operating efficiency of induction-motor loads, etc. This paper proposes a distribution static synchronous compensator (D-STATCOM) to effectively improve the voltage unbalance of a distribution system connected with a microgrid system. The studied microgrid system contains various renewable-energy resources, a diesel-engine generator, and three distribution transformers with U-V and/or V-V winding connections. The simulation results show that the proposed D-STATCOM with the designed controller can effectively reduce voltage unbalance of the distribution system connected with the studied microgrid system when the distribution transformers have U-V and/or V-V winding connections.