Photovoltaic-Based Static Synchronous Compensator For Voltage Sag Mitigation

Abstract

A static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) is a fast-acting device that can provide or absorb reactive current, thereby regulating the voltage at the point of connection to a power distribution system. This paper presents a simulation model of a 24-pulse STATCOM using photovoltaic (PV) as a means of providing an alternative energy source for the STATCOM during a deep voltage sag. To achieve a stable characteristic of the STATCOM, a feedback control loop is employed to achieve a faster response in sag and swell detection and mitigation capability with non-linear loads. Simulation was carried out using the PSCAD/EMTDC electromagnetic transient program to validate the capabilities of the 22/0.4 kV STATCOM in performing voltage sag and swell compensation. The test result shows that the proposed controller for the 24-switch pulse inverter with PV source is better than that of the conventional controller.