In a significant advancement for the energy sector, researchers have unveiled a coordinated reactive power control strategy for hybrid cascaded high-voltage direct-current (HC-HVDC) links, particularly aimed at addressing voltage stability challenges in weak AC grids. As the integration of wind power continues to rise, power systems are increasingly strained, leading to potential voltage instability that could jeopardize energy reliability.
Xiaojie Fan, a lead researcher from the China Electric Power Research Institute, emphasizes the urgency of this issue. “As we transition to a greener energy landscape, maintaining voltage stability in our grids is critical. Our strategy not only supports the current infrastructure but also paves the way for a more resilient energy future,” Fan stated.
The research delves into the interaction between HC-HVDC links and static voltage stability, utilizing a voltage sensitivity coefficient to assess their impact on the AC bus. One notable finding is the limited reactive power capability of the modular multilevel converter within the HC structure, which can hinder performance under certain conditions. To combat this, the team proposed an adaptive voltage droop control strategy that dynamically adjusts the DC voltage ratio in response to fluctuations in AC bus voltage. This innovative approach allows for real-time reactive power adjustment, effectively enhancing voltage support during critical periods.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By bolstering voltage stability, the proposed strategy can facilitate greater integration of renewable energy sources, particularly wind power, into existing grids. This is not just a technical enhancement; it represents a commercial opportunity for energy providers to optimize their operations and reduce the risk of outages, which can be costly both financially and in terms of customer trust.
Furthermore, the validation of these findings through electromagnetic simulations in PSCAD/EMTDC enhances confidence in their practical application. “The results speak for themselves, demonstrating that our control strategy is not only theoretically sound but also effective in real-world scenarios,” Fan added.
As the energy sector grapples with the challenges posed by increasing renewable energy integration, research like this, published in ‘IET Generation, Transmission & Distribution’ (English translation: ‘IET Generation, Transmission & Distribution’), stands to shape future developments significantly. The proactive measures highlighted in this study could lead to more stable, efficient, and sustainable power systems, ultimately benefiting consumers and the environment alike.
For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the China Electric Power Research Institute’s website at lead_author_affiliation.
