Investigation of power swing phenomenon in a network integrated with photovoltaic generation / Muthu Kumaran Gunasegaran

• Main Author: Muthu Kumaran, Gunasegaran
• Format: Thesis
• Published: 2016
• Subjects: Q Science (General)
• Online Access: http://studentsrepo.um.edu.my/6398/4/muthu.pdf; http://studentsrepo.um.edu.my/6398/

Power swings are known to occur due to the presence of sudden disturbances in the power network. The oscillation of power results in impedance swaying and causes the impedance trajectory to swing back and forth within the distance relay operating characteristics which may lead to unintended relay operation. Ideally, the distance relays in transmission system should not trip unexpectedly during dynamic system conditions such as stable power swings. Commonly, the relay settings are customized to prevent the impedance swing in order to avoid nuisance tripping. However, as the electrical system evolves, its complexity increases in line with the increasing risk of swing severity which may trigger unwanted relay operations. In recent times, the integration of inverter driven generation has been increasing. The penetration of large scale renewable generation into transmission network and its impact to the power swing characteristics has yet to be established. Therefore, this research will investigate the severity of power swing, critical clearing time of synchronous generator and the risk of distance relay mal-operation in the presence of large solar PV generator in transmission system. It is demonstrated in this research that the severity of swing increases and the critical clearing time of the synchronous machine decreases in the presence of inverter driven generation (solar PV generator) when compared to an equivalent synchronous machine. Various sensitivity studies have been conducted and a suitable preventive measure has been proposed to reduce the risk of distance relay mal-operation during power swing. These studies are important to reduce the risk of distance relay malfunction so that the security of the future grid can be strengthened.