Review on Optimal Placement and Sizing of Static VAR Compensator (SVC) for Voltage Stability Enhancement in Wind Integration Power System

Abstract

This project focuses on the modelling and simulation of a Static Var Generator (SVC) in power system studies using MATLAB. Initially, we mathematically modelled the SVC\'s rating analysis using MathCAD. Next, we modelled the Static Var Compensator (SVC) in power systems to analyze its behavior within and outside the control range, integrating load flow analysis for SVC implementation. Then, we separately modelled the SVC transfer functions with open-loop control in various control elements, including the measuring module, thyristor susceptance control module, and voltage regulator module. We applied lag/lead compensator theories to configure open and closed-loop transfer functions with respective gain/phase margins. Finally, we controlled the voltage and reactive power flow in the power system using the SVC device.

Introduction

With advances in power electronics and computer control, modern reactive power compensation devices have evolved from mechanical capacitor switching to thyristor-based Static Var Compensators (SVCs). Unlike mechanical switches, SVCs use thyristors for rapid, precise, and nearly unlimited switching, enabling fast reactive power control (0.01–0.02 s response) with minimal inrush effects. SVCs are essential for voltage regulation, transient stability, reactive power compensation, and power system oscillation damping, though they involve higher initial costs and maintenance.

Objectives:

• Perform load flow, small/large disturbance, and fault studies to analyze SVC performance.

• Investigate modulation techniques and their impact on harmonics and electromagnetic transients.

• Validate SVC behavior through MATLAB simulations.

Literature Insights:

• FACTS devices, like D-STATCOM, improve power quality, correct power factor, and stabilize distribution systems.

• SVCs and other power factor correction devices reduce transformer/conductor load, losses, and penalties while enhancing grid efficiency.

• Modeling and simulation of SVCs via MATLAB/Simulink provide insights into voltage control, reactive compensation, and transient stability.

Existing Configuration:

• Poor power factor due to unbalanced loads or reactive elements increases losses and costs.

• Power factor correction (PFC) equipment, often ICT-enabled, offers remote configuration, flexibility, and adaptability to various loads.

Proposed Configuration:

• The SVC, a FACTS shunt device, uses TCR/TSC/TSR combinations for stepwise reactive compensation.

• Benefits include voltage support, transient stability improvement, oscillation damping, reactive power compensation, increased power transfer, and reduced line losses.

• Stepwise switching of reactors minimizes harmonic issues without extra filtering.

Conclusion

In this article, we have modeled small disturbances, including control action, to determine the required rating of SVC for the given subject matter. Furthermore, we have determined the appropriate control signal for adequate transient stability, as well as control structures corridors, to provide the most viable and composite perception of the SVC control system. Therefore, power system stability describes the voltage control at the point of SVC connection to the system. This technique may be used to verify the adequacy of the control parameters. Finally, we connect an SVC to a power grid to control the voltage and the reactive power.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Nilesh Bodne, Dr. Kiran Kimmatkar, Rahul Vilas Kukadkar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.