Simulation of Reactive Power Compensation Using STATCOM

Power quality in distribution systems has been attracting an increasing interest during recent years. Research studies include the quality of voltage supply with connected to the same point of common coupling (PCC). Utility distribution networks, sensitive industrial loads and critical commercial operations suffer from various types of outages and service interruptions which can cost significant financial losses. With the restructuring of power systems and with shifting trend towards distributed and dispersed generation, the issue of power quality is going to take newer dimensions. [1]In developing countries like India, where the variation of voltage and many such other determinants of power quality are themselves a serious question, it is very vital to take positive steps in this direction .The present work is to identify the prominent concerns in this area and hence the measures that can enhance the quality of the power are recommended The rapid development of power electronics technology provides opportunities to develop new power equipment to improve the performance of the actual power systems. During the last decade, a number of control devices called “Flexible AC Transmission Systems” (FACTS)[1] technology have been proposed and implemented. FACTS devices STATCOM are the mostly used device in the power systems. In this research, principle of operation and modeling of a STATCOM (Static Synchronous Compensator) used for reactive power compensation on a Distribution network have been carried out. The [2] STATCOM consists of a DC storage capacitor, a VSC (Voltage Source Converter) and a small reactance in series with VSC. The simulation of STATCOM model is done using MATLAB/SIMULINK. The IGBT/Diode switches are used for the VSC. The pulses to these switches are generated using [3] SPWM (Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulation) technique. Reactive power compensation is achieved by applying the direct output voltage control technique. Steady state and dynamic performance of a ±3 MVAR STATCOM on a 25 KV Distribution network is evaluated. Both Inductive and Capacitive operating modes of STATCOM have been studied and presented. Key wordsPower quality; FACTS control devices; STATCOM ; MATLAB Simulation.. International Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Development Issue 3, Vol.6 (November 2013) Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijeted/ijeted_index.htm ISSN 2249-6149 R S. Publication (rspublication.com), [email protected] Page 349