Abstract
Worst case power system conditions are rare and dangerous to induce in the real world. Thus, the testing of the influences of synchronous condensers on the real power grid is impossible. In addition, due to the large amounts of reactive power these devices could absorb or inject into the grid at a high speed when responding to a fast system transient, the improper coordination and operation can turn a positive desirable outcome into an adverse response. An adverse response could jeopardize the system reliability. It is also important to study potential interaction between the device controller and other devices installed in the same network or in some cases in the same bus or substation. In the case of the San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) synchronous condenser projects, the above-mentioned situations could be tested using the an RTDS-HIL replica controller. SDG&E has installed a total of Seven (7) 225MVA synchronous condenser. Five (5) synchronous condensers within one bus away from each other. Thereby the overall system performance of synchronous condensers can be optimized through closed-loop testing under the most realistic test conditions possible.
Denden Tekeste, San Diego Gas & Electric