In the heart of China’s energy landscape, a significant challenge has emerged as wind power integration near High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) lines has led to a surge in subsynchronous oscillations. These oscillations, caused by the widespread use of power electronic devices in wind farms, can threaten the stability of the power grid. However, a groundbreaking study led by Shengli Wang from the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at North China Electric Power University, Beijing, offers a beacon of hope. The research, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (China Electric Power), delves into the intricacies of subsynchronous oscillations and proposes innovative solutions to mitigate these issues.
The study focuses on the ±800 kV HVDC line in Hami, Xinjiang, an area that has witnessed significant wind power integration. Wang and his team identified key features and influencing factors of subsynchronous oscillations, paving the way for effective control measures. “The power electronic devices used in wind farms can generate a large number of subsynchronous harmonics,” Wang explains. “These harmonics can lead to oscillations that, if left unchecked, can cause significant disruptions in the power grid.”
The research introduces three pivotal measures to monitor, control, and prevent subsynchronous oscillations. These measures include advanced monitoring systems and safety control devices designed to detect and mitigate oscillations in real-time. The experimental results are promising, showing that the subsynchronous oscillations can be accurately detected and effectively prevented, ensuring the stable operation of the power grid.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy sector. As wind power continues to grow as a critical component of renewable energy portfolios, the stability of the power grid becomes increasingly important. The solutions proposed by Wang and his team could revolutionize how wind power is integrated into existing grids, particularly near HVDC lines. This could lead to more efficient and reliable energy distribution, reducing the risk of blackouts and other disruptions.
The study’s findings are not just a technical triumph but also a commercial game-changer. Energy companies investing in wind power can now do so with greater confidence, knowing that there are effective solutions to manage subsynchronous oscillations. This could accelerate the adoption of wind energy, driving down costs and enhancing the overall sustainability of the energy sector.
Wang’s research, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (China Electric Power), underscores the importance of continuous innovation in the energy sector. As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, the challenges of integrating these sources into existing infrastructure become more complex. However, with pioneering studies like this, the path to a stable and sustainable energy future becomes clearer. The energy sector can look forward to a future where wind power and HVDC lines coexist harmoniously, thanks to the groundbreaking work of researchers like Shengli Wang.
