How transmission is getting smarter with advanced power electronics

KEMA discusses important transmission system enhancements for the utility of the future in Smart Grid News

With much focus on smart grid deployments, today, transmission advances are essential to maximize capabilities of the utility of the future. Advanced power electronics such as flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices and high voltage DC (HVDC) transmission can enhance the reliability, security, capacity and efficiency of transmission systems.

Power electronic technologies can fulfill several needs:

• Support for a voltage level affected by a system event

• Increase line capacity without incurring large capital expenditures

• Enable renewable energy resource integration through generation

• Provide ride-through capability when faults occur or large motors start

KEMA reviews how transmission owners are using advanced power electronics, and the range of benefits these technologies offer, in an article for Smart Grid News.