In the heart of Beijing, researchers at North China Electric Power University are tackling a complex challenge that could revolutionize how we transmit and manage electricity. You Zuo, a leading expert in electrical engineering, has been delving into the intricacies of Voltage Source Converter High-Voltage Direct Current (VSC-HVDC) systems, with a focus on how they can stabilize power grids when multiple transmission lines feed into a single receiving system.
Imagine a bustling city’s power grid as a vast, interconnected web. When multiple High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) lines converge into this web, voltage dips can propagate like ripples in a pond, potentially causing multiple commutation failures simultaneously. This is a significant concern for power system stability and reliability. Zuo’s research, published in the Global Energy Interconnection, offers a novel approach to mitigate this issue.
The traditional method of completely separating receiving systems with VSC-HVDC, known as asynchronous interconnection, is not always the best solution, especially for complex regional power grids. Zuo proposes a more nuanced approach: incomplete segmentation with an AC connection. “Incomplete segmentation is a more pertinent segmenting method for multilayer complex regional power grids,” Zuo explains. “It allows for better voltage support and system stability.”
To understand how VSC-HVDC can support voltage in an incompletely segmented system, Zuo and his team developed a micro-incremental model of the VSC. They calculated the operating impedance of the VSC and quantified its voltage support function. This model helps analyze how faults affect the system’s short-circuit capacity, a crucial factor in maintaining grid stability.
The team also built a VSC-segmented model of a two-infeed DC system using the EMTDC/PSCAD simulation platform. This model validated the micro-increment model and confirmed the accuracy of their proposed methods. The research provides a calculation method for the multi-infeed short-circuit ratio in an incompletely segmented scenario, a significant step forward in power system analysis.
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? As power grids become more interconnected and complex, maintaining stability and reliability is paramount. Zuo’s research offers a new tool for grid operators and engineers to manage voltage support and short-circuit capacity more effectively. This could lead to more robust and resilient power systems, reducing the risk of blackouts and improving the overall reliability of electricity supply.
Moreover, this research could pave the way for more efficient and cost-effective power transmission. By optimizing the use of VSC-HVDC systems, energy companies could reduce losses and improve the overall efficiency of their transmission networks. This is not just about keeping the lights on; it’s about doing so in the most efficient and sustainable way possible.
As we look to the future, Zuo’s work could shape how we design and operate power grids. It’s a testament to the power of innovative thinking and rigorous research in addressing complex challenges in the energy sector. With further development and application, this research could help build a more stable, reliable, and efficient power system for all.