P37.116: HVDC Converter Stations and Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) Devices
Objective
This project evaluates high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) technologies. HVDC and FACTS technologies offer options to enhance the capacity of existing lines. A dc transmission system also provides an effective alternative for integrating renewable resources, increasing the overall power system reliability, and transferring bulk power.
Recent advancements in HVDC and FACTS technologies, such as the development of voltage-source converter (VSC) technology, have been significant. As HVDC transmission systems and FACTS are planned, constructed, and refurbished, it is crucial that the power industry access the latest technologies and options to make informed decisions. Guidelines are essential to match applications with available approaches and to assist utilities in the selection between AC or DC systems. Research is needed to address the challenges and reduce costs associated with HVDC and FACTS controllers, thereby increasing their applications. Furthermore, the integration of HVDC and FACTS for renewable energy and smart transmission grids requires further study.
EPRI conducts investigations and develops reference materials that capture and consolidate industry experience and knowledge on HVDC and FACTS technologies. EPRI continues to build a comprehensive library of information to inform technology application and management.
The objectives of this project are to:
- Provide state-of-the-art information on HVDC and FACTS technologies
- Assist members in selecting proper options for renewables integration, increased capacity, and other applications
- Identify new applications and opportunities to reduce costs for HVDC and FACTS
- Develop operational, maintenance, and replacement strategies for HVDC and FACTS
- Identify and conduct research to address knowledge gaps
Research Value
The project can provide the following benefits:
- Research results to aid in the construction and operation of cost-effective HVDC and FACTS infrastructures
- Data to assist in selecting an optimal option (HVDC or HVAC with FACTS) for members’ utility systems
- A comprehensive and current resource for members to stay informed of HVDC and FACTS technologies
- Enhanced overall system controllability, stability, and reliability by using HVDC and FACTS
- Newly developed concepts, such as dc grids and dc circuit breakers to support a smart grid
Past EPRI Work on Topic
| Product ID | Title | Description | Published Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3002030235 | EPRI HVDC Transmission Reference Book: 2024 Edition | EPRI HVDC Transmission Reference Book (Olive Book) is a state-of-the-art guidebook that provides transmission companies with a comprehensive, single source of technical information and guidance for designing, building, operating, and extending the life of HVDC transmission systems. | December2024 |
| 3002030058 | FACTS Application Guide - Performance and Cost Comparison of FACTS Controllers –TCSC, SSSC, SVC, STATCOM, UPFC, IPFC, and Synchronous Condenser | Acomparative study of the technical performance and cost comparison of FACTS controllers—TCSC,SSSC, SVC, STATCOM, UPFC, IPFC, and Synchronous Condenser — for increased transmission capacity on the existing ac lines. | November 2024 |
| 3002030059 | Applicationof STATCOM with Energy Storage | Applicationof STATCOM with energy storage was studied, and the importance of real powerfor stability improvements is documented. | June 2024 |
| 3002024631 | Novel Concepts for DC CircuitBreakers and DC-DC Transformers | Thestate-of-the art topologies for DC circuit breakers including mechanical, solid state, and hybrid topologies were documented. Several proposed DC-DC transformer concepts were also documented. | December 2022 |
| 3002024629 | Technical Performance and Cost Comparison of SVC, STATCOM, and Synchronous Condenser | A comparative study of the technical performance and cost comparison of the shunt FACTS controllers -SVC and STACOM as well as non-FACTS controller – Synchronous Condenser was documented for making decisions on increasing transmission capacity on the existing assets. | April 2022 |
| 3002021402 | Novel Voltage Source Converter Topology with Fault Current Blocking Capability | A novel concept was developed replacing the diodes with thyristors in a half bridge module of a voltage source converter to block fault currents coming from AC system for DC line faults as a prototype in a lab environment and the operation was demonstrated successfully. | June 2021 |
| 3002021404 | Technical and Operational Comparison of series FACTS controllers – TCSC and SSSC | A comparative study of the performance and cost of the TCSC and SSSC was documented for making decisions on increasing transmission capacity. | July 2021 |
| 3002019243 | Single Arm Modular Multilevel Voltage Source Converter Concepts – Prototype Development | A voltage source converter was developed with a single arm only (instead of three arms) as a prototype in a lab environment and the operation was demonstrated successfully. | May 2020 |
| 3002019241 | HVDC & FACTS Workshop | An HVDC & FACTS technology update workshop was provided by WebEx, which was well attended by more than 80 utility engineers. | November 2020 |