Dynamic reactive compensation systems
Multi-vendor system integrator
AEP Texas is a regional utility of American Electric Power, composed of AEP Texas Central Company (TCC) and AEP Texas North Company (TNC), which deliver electricity to customers in South and West Texas on behalf of retail electric providers in their areas. There is a growing demand to harness wind as an energy resource in Texas. The introduction of wind as a generation resource causes problems from a systems operation perspective, because it is difficult to predict wind and to control a power system with such unpredictable, varying generation. Advanced power electronics, such as a dynamic reactive compensation system (DRCS), can help control the power system. A DRCS is composed of a dynamic reactive device, either a D-STATCOM or SVC, and an integral static shunt device (SSD) controller, which work together to provide automated control over reactive power compensation.
Without such schemes installed and operating within the transmission network, it is conceivable that problems related to voltage support may occur, ultimately leading to voltage collapse. DRCS supports voltage by injecting the appropriate amounts of reactive power into the network. This becomes critical when large variations in system generation occur.
Project
Since 2007, KEMA had been assisting AEP Texas on DRCS projects at various sites. In 2010, AEP Texas required engineering consulting services to complete the installation and commissioning of DRCS projects at AEP TNC’s remaining substations. Upon completion, KEMA will have assisted AEP in commissioning DRCS equipment in eight substations total. KEMA performed an array of services to complete this project, including
> Reviewed and assisted development of RTU point assignment (RPA) documents
> Updated specification and setting sheets to ensure consistency
> Assisted with SCADA display construction and verification
> Supported project management and on-site commissioning
> Collaborated with and coordinated vendors and AEP personnel
Benefits
The use of advanced power electronics can result in lower system losses. DRCS enhances the performance, efficiency, reliability, and security of AEP’s transmission systems. These systems will enable TNC to harness all generated wind energy and integrate it to its substations, so it can be put transported via the grid to load centers across Texas; thus, it will help fulfill CREZ (competitive renewable energy zone) transmission project goal.
Project coordinator
> KEMA, United States
Project partners
> ABB, United States
> Burns & McDonnell, United States
> S&C Electric, United States
Project details
> Duration: March 2010 – present