Simulation & Analysis of Static

Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM)

By

Hirak K. Shah
10MEEP16

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

AHMEDABAD-382481
September 2011
 Simulation & Analysis
of
Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM)

Major Project - Part I

Review I

Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for

the Degree of

MASTER OF TECHNOLOGY

IN

ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
(Power Electronics, Machines & Drives)

By
Hirak K. Shah
(10MEEP16)

Department of Electrical Engineering

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
NIRMA UNIVERSITY
AHMEDABAD 382 481
September 2011
 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the Major Project Report entitled Simulation & Analysis
of Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) submitted by Mr.Hirak
K. Shah (10MEEP16), towards the partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
award of degree in Master of Technology (Electrical Engineering) in the field
of Power Electronics, Machines & Drives of Nirma University is the record of
work carried out by him under our supervision and guidance. The work submitted
has reached a level required for being accepted for examination. The results embodied
in this major project to the best of my knowledge have not been submitted to any
other University or Institution for award of any degree or diploma.
Date:

Prof. P.N. Kapil Prof. M.T. Shah

(Project Guide) (Project Guide)
Assistant Professor, Assistant Professor,
Department of Electrical Engineering, Department of Electrical Engineering,
Institute of Technology, Institute of Technology,
Nirma University, Ahmedabad. Nirma University, Ahmedabad.

Dr. A.S. Ranade Dr. K.Kotecha

(Head of Department) (Director)
Department of Electrical Engineering, Institute of Technology
Institute of Technology, Nirma University, Ahmedabad.
Nirma University, Ahmedabad.
 iv

Abstract

Flexible AC Transmission Systems, called FACTS, got in the recent years a well-
known term for higher controllability in power systems by means of power electronic
devices. Several FACTS-devices have been introduced for various applications world-
wide. Basically there are Shunt and Series type of FACTS devices. The shunt devices
are primarily for reactive power compensation and therefore voltage control.
Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) is a Custom Power Device based on a
Voltage Source Converter (VSC) shunt connected to the grid. The STATCOM goes
one step further than SVC and is capable of improving the power quality against even
dips and flickers. The advantage of a STATCOM is that the reactive power provision
is independent from the actual voltage on the connection point. In the proposed work
Simulation and Analysis of STATCOM will be done and also the analysis of 2-level
D-STACOM (Distribution STATCOM) will be done. At the first stage of this work
is to study Shunt Connected FACTS devices and simulation of 2-level STATCOM
is done for mitigating Voltage dips. Simulation results are being shown. Later the
hardware implementation of the simulation model is to be done.
 v

Acknowledgements

Foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to both of my

guides, Asst.Prof. P.N. Kapil and Asst.Prof. M.T. Shah, for his support, patience,
and encouragement through- out my project. Their technical and editorial advice
was essential to the completion of this phase of project. They not only guided me
but also encouraged and challenged me throughout my academic researches.
My sincere thanks and gratitude to Prof. P.N. Tekwani, Section Head, Electrical
Engineering Department, Institute of Technology, Nirma University, Ahmedabad and
Prof. A.S. Ranade, Head of Electrical Engineering Department, Institute of Technol-
ogy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad for their continual kind words of encouragement
throughout the project work. I would also like to thank Dr.K.Kotecha, Director, In-
stitute of Technology, Nirma University for allowing me to carry out my project work
in the institute.
I am thankful to Nirma University for providing all kind of required resources. I am
also thankful to all the lab assistants for their continuous support during my work.
Finally, I would like to thank The Almighty and my parents for supporting and en-
couraging me in all possible ways. Last but not least I would also like to thank all
my friends and colleagues Hormaz, Tapan, Ram Ratan Tiwari, Sai Charan, Jignesh ,
Sindhura , Payaldidi and all others who have provided continuous encouragement in
making this phase of work successful.

- HIRAK K. SHAH
10MEEP16
 vi

Abbreviation Notation and Nomenclature

CVT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Constant Voltage Transformers

D-STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Distribution Static Compensator
DVR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dynamic Voltage Restorer
FACTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flexible AC Transmission System
IPFC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interline Power Flow Controller
PQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Quality
PWM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pulse Width Modulation
RFI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Radio Frequency Interference
RMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Root Mean Square
STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Static Synchronous Compensator
SVC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Static VAR Compensator
TCSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thyristor Controllers Series Capacitor
TSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thyristor Switched Capacitor
UPFC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Unified Power Flow Controller
VAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Reactive Power
Contents

CERTIFICATE iii

Abstract iv

Acknowledgements v

Abbreviation Notation and Nomenclature vi

List of Figures ix

1 Introduction 2
1.1 General Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2 Problem Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.3 Literature Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4 Objective & Scope of Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.5 Thesis Outline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

2 Power Quality 7
2.1 Power Quality Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Voltage Dips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3 Solutions for Such Power Quality Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

3 Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) 11

3.1 Power Flow in AC System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.2 FACTS Oppurtunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.3 Types of FACTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.4 Technological Attributes of FACTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.5 Disadvantages of FACTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.6 Applications of FACTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4 Shunt Compensation 20
4.1 Objective of Shunt Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.2 Principle of Shunt Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

vii
CONTENTS viii

5 Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) 24

5.1 Principle of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5.2 Characteristics of STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.3 Advantages of STATCOM over SVC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

6 Control of STATCOM 30
6.1 Various Control Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
6.2 Proposed Control Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

7 Simulation & Results 34

7.1 Block Diagram of Proposed STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
7.2 Simulation for 2-level D-STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
7.2.1 Test System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
7.2.2 Simulink Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
7.3 Simulation Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7.3.1 Gate Signals for VSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7.3.2 Output Voltages of VSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
7.3.3 Voltage Dip During Single L-G Fault Without STATCOM . . 41
7.3.4 Voltage Dip During Single L-G Fault With D-STATCOM . . . 42

8 Conclusion and Future Work 43

8.1 Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
8.2 Future Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

References 45
List of Figures

2.1 Typical Voltage Dip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

3.1 Part of Large Interconnected Transmission System . . . . . . . . . . . 12

3.2 Power Flow Along Controlled Path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.3 General FACTS Symbol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.4 Series Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.5 Shunt Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.6 Combined Series-Shunt Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

4.1 Single Line Diagram & Phasor Diagram Without Compensation . . . 22

4.2 Single Line Diagram & Phasor Diagram With Compensation . . . . . 23

5.1 General Representation of STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

5.2 STATCOM - A VSC interfaced in shunt to a transmission line control
range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
5.3 Different Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.4 V-I Characteristics of STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

6.1 Inner Current Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

6.2 Outer Voltage Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
6.3 PI Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
6.4 Phase Modulation of Control Angle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

7.1 Block Diagram of the Proposed Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

7.2 Single line diagram of Test System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
7.3 MATLAB Simulink Model of D-STATCOM Test System . . . . . . . 36
7.4 MATLAB Simulink Model of D-STATCOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7.5 Gate Signal for IGBT1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7.6 Gate Signal for IGBT3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
7.7 Gate Signal for IGBT5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
7.8 Voltage Vab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
7.9 Voltage Vbc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
7.10 Voltage Vac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
7.11 Voltage Vrms at the load point: Without D-STATCOM . . . . . . . . 41

ix
LIST OF FIGURES 1

7.12 Voltage Vrms at the load point: With D-STATCOM . . . . . . . . . 42

Chapter 1

Introduction

1.1 General Background

Nowadays, more and more revolutionary Power Electronics equipments are used in
industries for attaining better better power controlling ability. Also Power Quality,
one of the important issues in power systems has been a problem to both suppliers
and customers. Any small time disturbances like voltage dips, voltage swells or any
other harmonic disturbances can bring a large amount of financial losses. Among
those most common are voltage dips.
The concept of Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS),which are custom power
devices and which are based on power electronics devices are used to enhance control-
lability and increase power transfer capability of the system. FACTS is defined by the
IEEE as ”a power electronic based system and other static equipment that provide
control of one or more AC transmission system parameters to enhance controllability
and increase power transfer capability.” [1]
Several different custom power devices have been proposed, many of which are based
on the Voltage Source Converter (VSC), e.g. Dynamic Voltage Restorer (DVR) and
Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) etc. With a DVR installed in series
or a STATCOM connected in shunt with the critical load, the line voltage can be

2
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION 3

restored to its nominal value within the response time of a few milliseconds, thus
avoiding any power disturbances to the load. The STATCOM have a function of
compensating reactive power, absorbing the harmonic and compensating the voltage
dip.
The present work focuses on the function of compensating voltage dip using Distri-
bution Static Compensator (D-STATCOM).

1.2 Problem Identification

Increased electric power consumption causes transmission lines to be driven close to

or even beyond their transfer capacities resulting in overloaded lines and congestions.
Also some other problems like voltage dip, voltage sag and voltage swell creates a
critical problem both technically and economically. As a result of all such problems,
Power Quality is affected.
Since most loads are inductive and consume lagging reactive power, the compensation
required is usually supplied by leading reactive power. As a result Shunt compen-
sation of reactive power is needed. STATCOM is such one of the Shunt FACTS
Controllers.[2]

1.3 Literature Survey

Books [1] [2] [3] [4] gives a basic ideas about various FACTS controllers and their
details about them.
Paper [5] This Paper identifies the prominent concerns in the Power Quality
area and hence the measures that can enhance the quality of the power are rec-
ommended.This paper also describes the techniques of correcting the supply voltage
sag, swell and interruption in a distributed system.Among the wide range of flexible
controllers, the distribution static compensator and the dynamic voltage restorer are
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION 4

most effective devices, both of them based on the VSC principle. A DVR injects a
voltage in series with the system voltage and a D-STATCOM injects a current into
the system to correct the voltage sag, swell and interruption. Comprehensive results
are also presented to assess the performance of each device as a potential custom
power solution.
Paper [6] This thesis focuses on the STATCOM for mitigating voltage dips. First,
characteristics of the STATCOM for mitigating voltage dips are studied, such as the
required shunt compensation current, injected active and reactive power for given
voltage dip magnitude. Also, a Dual Vector Controller of the STATCOM, incorpo-
rating a vector voltage controller (outer loop) and a vector current controller (inner
loop), is designed for mitigating the voltage dip and tested in simulation.
Paper [7] This paper presents results of the IEEEs FACTS Working Group of the
DC and FACTS Subcommittee which had the assignment to establish appropriate
definitions of FACTS-related terminology. These definitions are included in the IEEE
Dictionary.
Paper [8] This paper provides a summary on the topic of FACTS Fundamentals,
for a session sponsored by the DC and FACTS Education Working Group. This paper
focuses on a summary of the issues and benefits of applying FACTS controllers to
AC power systems. The overall process for system studies and analysis related with
FACTS installation projects and the need for FACTS controllers is also discussed.
Finally, an introduction to the basic circuits of several FACTS controllers is provided
with a locus on their system performance characteristics.
Paper [9] This paper presents a study of FACTS devices mainly Static Var Com-
pensator (SVC) and Controlled series compensator (CSC). Their steady-state mod-
eling and effects on power system performance have been studied. It also studies
static stability improvement of power system and hence power flow improvement in
the network. The Study reveals that incorporation of FACTS devices significantly
enhanced system stability as well as power transfer capability of the system.
Paper [10] This paper presents a study on the modeling of a STATCOM (Static
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION 5

Synchronous Compensator) used for reactive power compensation on a distribution

network. The power circuits of the D-STATCOM and the distribution network are
modeled by specific blocks from the Power System Blockset. Simulation performance
obtained with both modeling approaches are presented and compared.
Paper [11] This paper deals with the simulation model and analysis of STAT-
COM for voltage flicker mitigation. It also shows the comparision between Thyristor
Controlled Reactor (TCR) and STATCOM.

1.4 Objective & Scope of Work

The objective and scopes of this project are:

a. To prepare a Simulink model of 2-level D-STATCOM and to do its analysis.

b. To develop a suitable control strategy for PWM control of the VSC of the
STATCOM.

c. To develop a suitable closed loop control system for the STATCOM.

d. To develop a proto-type of 2-level STATCOM by using appropriate control

strategy and to get its practical results.

e. To Compare and validate Practical and simulation results.

f. If time permits, to develop the simulation of 3-level STATCOM and to do its

analysis.

g. Also to compare results for 2-level STATCOM with both SPWM and SVPWM
control strategy.

1.5 Thesis Outline

This thesis is comprised of an introductory chapter and five other chapters as ar-
ranged below :
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION 6

Chapter 2 briefly introduces the main characteristics of voltage dips and other vari-
ous Power Quality issues related to power system. Also techniques to mitigate such
voltage dips are explained.
Chapter 3 describes about the need of FACTS devices in the system. Also it presents
the family of different FACTS devices and their broad classification.
Chapter 4 studies about the Shunt Compensation and its principle in the system. It
also studies about the characteristics of FACTS shunt compensating device STAT-
COM and its working. Also the proposed block diagram of STATCOM is presented.
Chapter 5 describes about the controller used for the STATCOM to mitigate voltage
dips.
Chapter 6 shows the results of the simulated model of 2-level STATCOM for voltage
dip mitigation.
Chapter 2

Power Quality

In present days the AC power distribution system is suffering from various power
quality problems. The widespread use of power electronics in applications such as ad-
justable speed drives (ASD), programmable logic controllers (PLC), energy-efficient
lighting, led to a complete change of electric loads nature. These loads are simulta-
neously the major causers and the major victims of power quality problems. Due to
their non-linearity, all these loads cause disturbances in the voltage waveform.
For power engineers the term Power Quality refers to a certain sufficiently high grade
of electric service. The measure of power quality depends upon the needs of the
equipment that is being supplied. What is good power quality for one equipment
may not be good enough for another one. Usually the term power quality refers to
maintaining a sinusoidal waveform of bus voltages at rated voltage and frequency.

2.1 Power Quality Problems

At generation stage the waveform of electric power at is purely sinusoidal and free
from any distortion. Many of the power conversion and consumption equipment are
also designed to function under pure sinusoidal voltage waveforms. However, there
are many devices that distort the waveform. These distortions may propagate all over
the electrical network. There has been an increased use of non-linear loads in recent

7
CHAPTER 2. POWER QUALITY 8

years. This in turn has resulted in an increased fraction of non-sinusoidal currents

and voltages in electric network.
The classification of power quality areas can be made according to the source of the
problem such as converters, magnetic circuit non linearity, arc furnace or by the wave
shape of the signal such as harmonics, flicker or by the frequency spectrum (RFI). The
wave shape phenomena associated with power quality may be characterized into syn-
chronous and non-synchronous phenomena. Synchronous phenomena refer to those
in synchronism with A.C waveform at power frequency.
The most common power quality problems includes :

a. Voltage Sag (Voltage dips)

b. Very short & long interruptions

c. Voltage spike

d. Voltage swell

e. Harmonic distortion

f. Voltage fluctuation & Voltage unbalance

g. Surges (Impulses) & Notches

h. Noise,etc.

2.2 Voltage Dips

Voltage dips are short-term reduction in, or complete loss of, RMS voltage. It can
be defined as a decrease of the normal voltage level between 10 and 90 % of the
nominal RMS voltage at the power frequency, for durations of 0.5 cycle to 1 minute.
It is specified in terms of duration and retained voltage, usually expressed as the
percentage of nominal RMS voltage remaining at the lowest point during the dip. A
CHAPTER 2. POWER QUALITY 9

voltage dip means that the required energy is not being delivered to the load and this
can have serious consequences depending on the type of load involved. There are two
main causes of voltage dips; starting of large loads either on the affected site or by a
consumer on the same circuit and faults on other branches of the network.[5]
The most common causes for such voltage dips are :

a. Faults on the transmission or distribution network (most of the times on parallel

feeders)

b. Faults in consumer’s installation

c. Connection of heavy loads and start-up of large motors.

d. Capacitor and Transformer Energising

e. Overloading of Lines

A typical Voltage dip is as shown in figure given below.

Figure 2.1: Typical Voltage Dip

CHAPTER 2. POWER QUALITY 10

2.3 Solutions for Such Power Quality Problems

It is necessary to minimise PQ problems because as a result of PQ problems there
arises problems of both economic and technical losses. PQ problems can be minimised
by different ways as per the need in the system.
Some of the various possible ways to minimise PQ problems are as listed below :

a. Dynamic Voltage restorer (DVR)

b. Transient voltage surge suppressors (TVSS)

c. Noise Filters

d. Constant Voltage Transformers (CVT)

e. Isolation Transformers

f. Use of FACTS devices for better stability and reliability

g. Harmonic filters, etc.

Chapter 3

Flexible AC Transmission System

(FACTS)

In recent years greater demands has been placed on the transmission networks and
these demands will continue to increase in coming years. These high demands has
resulted in the less security and quality of the supply. This has resulted in need for
transporting more electricity which can be met either by installing new transmission
lines or by using the existing ones in a more efficient way. The construction of
new transmission lines is increasingly difficult because of several reasons, such as
regulatory, environmental, and public policies, as well as the high capital cost. Any
unwanted path along the flow causes extra power loss, loop flow of power and reduced
stability with increased voltage variation in the line. Presently, the power industry is
constantly searching the most economic ways to transfer bulk power along a desired
path. Before consideration of new transmission lines, it is duly desirable to explore
alternate ways to increase the power flowing capability of the existing transmission
line and thus increasing the usage of existing transmission lines.

11
CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 12

Figure 3.1: Part of Large Interconnected Transmission System

3.1 Power Flow in AC System

The electric power flow can be divided in two components : Active power and Reactive
power. A transmission line consists of electrical conductors which is having resistance,
inductance, and capacitance. Except for the loss in resistance of the conductor mainly
the Active power, reaches from one end of the line to the other. This active power
can be converted into lighting, heating, motion force in electric motors, and so on,
generating revenue. Reactive power is generated by absorbing the inherent inductive
and capacitive reactance of the conductor. This reactive power flow causes an extra
loss in the resistance of the conductor.
Power flow in a system can be given as follows :
Active Power,
Vs ∗ Vr ∗ (sin(δs − δr ))
P = (3.1)
(X)

Reactive Power,
Vs ∗ Vr Vs
Q= [cos(δs − δr ) − ] (3.2)
X Vr
CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 13

Figure 3.2: Power Flow Along Controlled Path

where, Vs=Sending end voltage

Vr=Receiving end voltage
δs = Sending end phase angle
δr = Receiving end phase angle
X = Line Reactance
The power flow control parameters are voltage magnitudes, their phase angles, and
line reactance.

3.2 FACTS Oppurtunities

FACTS technology opens up new opportunities for controlling power and enhanc-
ing the usable capacity of present as well as new and upgraded lines. With FACTS
controllers there arises possibility to control all control parameters through a line at
reasonable cost. It also enables power flow under both normal and contingency con-
ditions. FACTS controllers can control inter-related parameters that mainly governs
CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 14

the operation of transmission system. These parameters are series impedance, shunt
impedance, current, voltage, phase angle, and the damping of oscillations at various
frequencies below the rated frequency.
Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) is defined as ‘Alternating Current trans-
mission systems incorporating power electronic-based and other static controllers to
enhance controllability and increase power transfer capability’ The FACTS controller
is defined as ‘a power electronic based system and other static equipment that provide
control of one or more AC transmission system parameters’.
Figure below shows the general symbol for FACTS device.

Figure 3.3: General FACTS Symbol

The FACTS technology is not a single high-power controller, but rather a collection
of controllers, which can be applied individually or in coordination with others to
control one or more of the interrelated system parameters mentioned above. FACTS
technology also helps in extending usable transmission limits of the line.

3.3 Types of FACTS

Generally the FACTS controllers can be classified as :

1 Shunt connected controllers

2 Series connected controllers

CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 15

3 Combined series-series controllers

4 Combined shunt-series controllers

Series Controllers:
A series controller injects voltage in series with the line. Even a variable impedance
multiplied by the current flow through it, represents an injected series voltage in the
line. As long as the voltage is in phase quadrature with the line current, the series
controller only supplies or consumes variable reactive power. Any other phase rela-
tionship will involve handling of real power as well. The series controller could be
a variable impedance, such as capacitor, reactor, etc., or a power electronics based
variable source of main frequency, sub-synchronous and harmonic frequencies (or a
combination) to serve the desired need.

Figure 3.4: Series Controller

Shunt Controllers:
A shunt controller injects current into the system at the point of connection. As
long as the injected current is in phase quadrature with the line voltage, the shunt
Controller only supplies or consumes variable reactive power. Any other phase rela-
tionship will involve handling of real power as well. Similarly as in the case of series
Controllers, the shunt Controllers may be variable impedance, variable source, or a
combination of these.
CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 16

Figure 3.5: Shunt Controller

Combined Series-Series Controllers:

This could be a combination of separate series controllers, which are controlled in a
coordinated manner, in a multiline transmission system. In which series Controllers
provide independent series reactive compensation for each line but also transfer real
power among the lines via the power link. The real power transfer capability of the
unified series-series controller, referred to as Interline Power Flow Controller, makes
it possible to balance both the real and reactive power flow in the lines and thereby
maximize the utilization of the transmission system.

Combined series-shunt Controllers:

Such controllers could be a combination of separate shunt and series controllers, which
are controlled in a coordinated manner. In principle, combined shunt and series con-
trollers inject current into the system with the shunt part of the Controller and voltage
in series in the line with the series part of the controller. However, when the shunt
and series Controllers are unified, there can be a real power exchange between the
series and shunt controllers via the power link.

Depending on the power electronic devices used in the control, the FACTS con-
trollers can be classified as :

a. Variable Impedance type

CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 17

Figure 3.6: Combined Series-Shunt Controller

b. Voltage Source Converter (VSC) based

The variable impedance type controllers include:

• Static Var Compensator (SVC) (Shunt connected)

• Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor or compensator (TCSC) (Series con-

nected)

• Thyristor Controlled Phase Shifting Transformer (TCPST) of Static PST (com-

bined shunt and series)

The VSC based FACTS controllers are:

• Static synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) (shunt connected)

• Static Synchronous Series Compensator (SSSC) (series connected)

• Interline Power Flow Controller (IPFC) (combined series-series)

• Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) (combined shunt-series)

Some of the special purpose FACTS controllers are :

1 Thyristor Controller Braking Resistor (TCBR)

CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 18

2 Thyristor Controlled Voltage Limiter (TCVL)

3 Thyristor Controlled Voltage Regulator (TCVR)

4 Interphase Power Controller (IPC)

The FACTS controllers based on VSC have many advantages over the variable
impedance type. For example, for similar rating a STATCOM is much more compact
than a SVC and also technically superior. It can supply required reactive current
even at low values of the bus voltage and can be designed to have in built short term
overload capability. Also, a STATCOM can supply active power if it has an energy
source or large energy storage at its DC terminals. The only drawback with VSC
based controllers is the requirement of using self commutating power semiconductor
devices such as Gate Turn-off (GTO) thyristors, Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors
(IGBT), Integrated Gate Commutated Thyristors (IGCT). Thyristors do not have
such capability hence cannot be used.

3.4 Technological Attributes of FACTS

In general, FACTS devices possess the following technological attributes:

1 Provide dynamic reactive power support and voltage control.

2 Reduce the need for construction of new transmission lines, capacitors, reactors,
etc. which
a. Mitigate environmental and regulatory concerns
b. Improve aesthetics by reducing the need for construction of new facilities such
as transmission lines

3 Improve system stability

4 Control real and reactive power flow

5 Mitigate potential Sub-Synchronous resonance problems

CHAPTER 3. FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEM (FACTS) 19

3.5 Disadvantages of FACTS

Some of the disadvantages of FACTS are :

1 High initial cost

2 Precise controllers are required

3 Complex control

3.6 Applications of FACTS

FACTS mainly find applications in the following areas:

1 Power transmission

2 Power Quality

3 Railway Grid Connection

4 Wind power grid connection

5 Cable systems , etc

Chapter 4

Shunt Compensation

It is important that the steady-state transmittable power can be increased and the
voltage profile can be improved along the line, controlled by appropriate reactive
shunt compensation. The main purpose of this reactive compensation is to change
the natural electrical characteristics of the transmission line to make it more compat-
ible with the prevailing load demand. Thus, shunt connected, fixed or mechanically
switched reactors are applied to minimize line overvoltage under light load condi-
tions, and shunt connected, fixed or mechanically switched capacitors are applied to
maintain voltage levels under heavy load conditions.

4.1 Objective of Shunt Compensation

The ultimate objective of applying reactive shunt compensation in a transmission
system is to increase the transmittable power. This is required to improve the steady-
state transmission characteristics as well as the stability of the system. Var compen-
sation is thus used for voltage regulation at the midpoint (or any intermediate) of the
transmission line and at the end of the (radial) line to prevent voltage instability, as
well as for dynamic voltage control to increase transient stability.

20
CHAPTER 4. SHUNT COMPENSATION 21

Shunt compensation is of two types:

a. Shunt capacitive compensation :

This method is used to improve the power factor. Whenever an inductive load
is connected to the transmission line, power factor lags because of lagging load
current. To compensate, a shunt capacitor is connected which draws current
leading the source voltage. The net result is improvement in power factor.

b. Shunt inductive compensation :

This method is used either when charging the transmission line, or, when there
is very low load at the receiving end. Due to very low, or no load - very low
current flows through the transmission line.
Shunt capacitance in the transmission line causes voltage amplification (Ferranti
Effect). The receiving end voltage may become double the sending end voltage
(generally in case of very long transmission lines). To compensate, shunt in-
ductors are connected across the transmission line and then the power transfer
capability is increased depending upon the power equation.

4.2 Principle of Shunt Compensation

In principle, all shunt controllers inject current into the system at the point of con-
nection. The following figure shows the principles and theoretical effects of shunt
reactive power compensation in a basic AC system, which comprises a source V1 , a
power line and a typical inductive load. The other figure shows the system without
compensation, and its associated phasor diagram.
In the phasor diagram, the phase angle of the current has been related to the load
side, which means that the active current Ip is in phase with the load voltage V2 .
Since the load is assumed inductive, it requires reactive power for proper operation
and hence, the source must supply it, increasing the current from the generator and
through power lines. If reactive power is supplied near the load, the line current can
CHAPTER 4. SHUNT COMPENSATION 22

Figure 4.1: Single Line Diagram & Phasor Diagram Without Compensation

be reduced or minimized, reducing power losses and improving voltage regulation at

the load terminals.
This can be done in three ways:

a. With a capacitor

b. With a voltage source

c. With a current source

In above figure, a current source device is being used to compensate the reactive
component of the load current (Iq ). As a result, the system voltage regulation is
improved and the reactive current component from the source is reduced or almost
eliminated.
CHAPTER 4. SHUNT COMPENSATION 23

Figure 4.2: Single Line Diagram & Phasor Diagram With Compensation

If the load needs leading compensation, then an inductor would be required. Also
a current source or a voltage source can be used for inductive shunt compensation.
The main advantages of using voltage or current source VAR generators (instead of
inductors or capacitors) is that the reactive power generated is independent of the
voltage at the point of connection.
Chapter 5

Static Synchronous Compensator

(STATCOM)

The most used FACTS-device is the SVC or the version with Voltage Source converter
called STATCOM. These shunt devices are operating as reactive power compensators.
The main applications in transmission, distribution and industrial networks are:

a. Improvement of static or transient stability

b. Reduction of unwanted reactive power flows and therefore reduced network

losses

c. Compensation of consumers and improvement of power quality especially with

huge demand fluctuations

According to IEEE, STATCOM can be defined as follows, ”A Static synchronous

generator operated as a shunt-connected static VAR compensator whose capacitive
or inductive output current can be controlled independent of the ac system voltage.”

5.1 Principle of Operation

A STATCOM is comparable to a Synchronous Condenser (or Compensator) which
can supply variable reactive power and regulate the voltage of the bus where it is

24
CHAPTER 5. STATIC SYNCHRONOUS COMPENSATOR (STATCOM) 25

Figure 5.1: General Representation of STATCOM

connected. In its most general way, the STATCOM can be modelled as a regulated
voltage source Vi connected to a voltage bar Vs through a transformer. In its most
general way, the STATCOM can be modelled as a regulated voltage source Vi con-
nected to a voltage bar Vs through a transformer.
The STATic COMpensator (STATCOM) uses a VSC interfaced in shunt to a trans-
mission line. In most cases the DC voltage support for the VSC will be provided
by the DC capacitor of relatively small energy storage capability. Hence, in steady
state operation, active power exchanged with the line has to be maintained at zero,
as shown symbolically in the figure. With the active power constraint imposed, the
control of the STATCOM is reduced to one degree of freedom, which is used to control
the amount of reactive power exchanged with the line. Accordingly, a STATCOM is
operated as a functional equivalent of a Static VAR compensator; it provides faster
CHAPTER 5. STATIC SYNCHRONOUS COMPENSATOR (STATCOM) 26

Figure 5.2: STATCOM - A VSC interfaced in shunt to a transmission line control

range

control than an SVC and improved. The figure below shows the equivalent circuit of
a STATCOM system with its power diagram.
The Converter with a dc voltage source and the power system are illustrated as vari-
able ac voltages in this figure. These two voltages are connected by a reactance
representing the transformer leakage inductance. Using the classical equations that
describe the active and reactive power flow in a line in terms of Vi and Vs , the trans-
former impedance (which can be assumed as ideal) and the angle difference between
both bars, we can defined P and Q. The angle between the Vs and Vi in the system
is δ.
When the STATCOM operates with δ = 0 we can see how the active power send to
the system device becomes zero while the reactive power will mainly depend on the
voltage module. This operation condition means that the current that goes through
the transformer must have a +/− 90 phase difference to Vs . In other words, if Vi is
bigger than Vs , the reactive will be send to the STATCOM of the system (capacitive
operation), originating a current flow in this direction. In the contrary case, the reac-
tive will be absorbed from the system through the STATCOM (inductive operation)
CHAPTER 5. STATIC SYNCHRONOUS COMPENSATOR (STATCOM) 27

Figure 5.3: Different Operations

and the current will flow in the opposite direction.

Finally if the modules of Vs and Vi are equal, there wont be nor current nor reactive
flow in the system. Thus, we can say that in a stationary state Q only depends on
the module difference between Vs and Vi voltages. The amount of the reactive power
is proportional to the voltage difference between Vs and Vi . There can be a little
active power exchange between the STATCOM and the power system. The exchange
between the inverter and the AC system can be controlled adjusting the output volt-
age angle from the inverter to the voltage angle of the AC system. This means that
the inverter cannot provide active power to the AC system form the DC accumulated
energy if the output voltage of the inverter goes before the voltage of the AC system.
On the other hand, the inverter can absorb the active power of the AC system if its
voltage is delayed in respect to the AC system voltage.
CHAPTER 5. STATIC SYNCHRONOUS COMPENSATOR (STATCOM) 28

Figure 5.4: V-I Characteristics of STATCOM

5.2 Characteristics of STATCOM

The following figure shows the characteristics of STATCOM :- The STATCOM smoothly
and continuously controls voltage from V1 to V2 . However, if the system voltage ex-
ceeds a low-voltage (V1 ) or high-voltage limit (V2 ), the STATCOM acts as a constant
current source by controlling the converter voltage (Vi ) appropriately.

5.3 Advantages of STATCOM over SVC

1 Superior Reactive power controllability than SVC.

2 It has a symmetric lead-lag capability.

3 No problems of loss of synchronism under a major disturbance.

4 No moving parts and hence the maintenance is easier.

5 The STATCOM has a smaller installation space due to no capacitors or reactors.

CHAPTER 5. STATIC SYNCHRONOUS COMPENSATOR (STATCOM) 29

6 Quicker response time (A STATCOM has a step response of 8 ms to 30 ms).This

helps with compensation of negative phase current and with the reduction of voltage
flicker.

7 Active power control is possible with a STATCOM (with optional energy storage
on dc circuit). This could further help with system stability control.
Chapter 6

Control of STATCOM

6.1 Various Control Methods

Mainly there are two types of control in STATCOM :

a. Inner Current Control

b. Outer Voltage Control

Figure shown below shows the reactive current control block diagram of the STAT-
COM. An instantaneous three-phase set of line voltages (V1 ) is used to calculate the
PLL angle (θ), which is phase locked to the phase a of the line voltage (V1a ). An
instantaneous three-phase set of measured currents (I1 ) through the VSC is decom-
posed into its active or direct component (I1d ) and reactive or quadrature component
(I1q ). The quadrature component is compared with the desired reference value (I1q )
and the error is passed through an error amplifier, which produces a relative phase
angle (α) of the compensating voltage (E1 ) with respect to the line voltage (V1 ). The
absolute phase angle (θ1 ) of the compensating voltage is calculated by adding the
relative phase angle of the compensating voltage with respect to the PLL angle (θ).
The reference quadrature component (I1q ) of the current through the VSC is
defined to be either positive if the STATCOM is emulating a capacitive reactance

30
CHAPTER 6. CONTROL OF STATCOM 31

Figure 6.1: Inner Current Control

or negative if it is emulating an inductive reactance. The DC link capacitor voltage

(Vdc ) is dynamically adjusted in relationship with the compensating voltage. The
control scheme described above shows the implementation of the inner current control
loop, which regulates the reactive current flow through the VSC regardless of the
line voltage. However, if it is desired to regulate the line voltage, an outer voltage
control loop must be implemented. The outer voltage control loop automatically
determines the reference reactive current for the inner current control loop, which, in
turn, regulates the line voltage.

Using the reference PLL angle, the instantaneous three-phase set of measured line
voltage (V1 ) is decomposed into its active or direct component (V1d ) and reactive or
quadrature component (V1q ). The magnitude of the bus voltage (V1dq ) is calculated,
which is compared with the desired reference value, (adjusted by the droop factor,
(Kdroop ), and the error is passed through an error amplifier that produces the ref-
erence current (I1q ) for the inner current control loop. The droop factor (Kdroop ) is
defined as the allowable voltage error at the rated reactive current flow through the
STATCOM.
CHAPTER 6. CONTROL OF STATCOM 32

Figure 6.2: Outer Voltage Control

6.2 Proposed Control Scheme

The main aim of the control scheme is to maintain constant voltage magnitude at
the point where a sensitive load is connected, under system disturbances. In this
control scheme it measures the RMS voltage at the load point, i.e. no requirements
of reactive power measurements. Here the sinusoidal PWM technique is used for the
switching of VSC as sine PWM offers simplicity and good response compared to other
scheme like space vector PWM.
The input of the controller is an error signal which is obtained from the reference
voltage and the value RMS of the terminal voltage measured. Now PI controller will
process this error signal and then the output is the angle δ, which is provided to
the PWM signal generator. In this case it is important to note that in converter,
CHAPTER 6. CONTROL OF STATCOM 33

Figure 6.3: PI Controller

Figure 6.4: Phase Modulation of Control Angle

there is active and reactive power exchange with the network simultaneously. Now
the error signal is obtained by comparison of the reference voltage with the RMS
voltage measured at the load point. The error signal is processed by PI controller
which in return generates the required angle to drive the error to zero, i.e., the load
RMS voltage is brought back to the reference voltage.
The sinusoidal signal Vcontrol is phase-modulated by means of the angle δ.
Chapter 7

Simulation & Results

7.1 Block Diagram of Proposed STATCOM

The following figure shows the block diagram of the proposed STATCOM scheme
implemented and simulated.

Figure 7.1: Block Diagram of the Proposed Scheme

34
CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 35

7.2 Simulation for 2-level D-STATCOM

Here the simulations are carried out for 2-level D-STATCOM (Distribution STAT-
COM) in MATLAB/Simulink.

7.2.1 Test System

The following Fig. shows the test system used to carry out for the D-STATCOM
simulation. It shows the system comprising of two loads through a transformer to the
utility supply with VSC across it.

Figure 7.2: Single line diagram of Test System

7.2.2 Simulink Model

Here figure given below shows the test system implemented in MATLAB Simulink.
The test system consists of a 720 V, 50 Hz transmission system.
A two-level D-STATCOM is connected to provide instantaneous voltage support
at the load point. There is a 750 µF capacitor on the dc side providing the D-
CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 36

Figure 7.3: MATLAB Simulink Model of D-STATCOM Test System

STATCOM energy storage capabilities.

Simulations were carried out with and with no D-STATCOM connected to the system,
to show the effectiveness of this controller. The switching frequency of VSC is set
according to the closed loop operation of the controller. The D-STATCOM model
which is incorporated in the transmission system for voltage regulation is as shown
in the above figure. It shows an inverter with its PWM controller.
Here in this scheme,PWM is generated by Discrete PWM block in Simulink with
carrier frequency of 50 Hz.
CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 37

Figure 7.4: MATLAB Simulink Model of D-STATCOM

7.3 Simulation Results

7.3.1 Gate Signals for VSC

The figures shown are the respective gate signals of the IGBTs of the upper leg of
the 2-level inverter.

Figure 7.5: Gate Signal for IGBT1

CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 38

Figure 7.6: Gate Signal for IGBT3

Figure 7.7: Gate Signal for IGBT5

CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 39

7.3.2 Output Voltages of VSC

Here the VSC is used to either completely replace the voltage or to inject some miss-
ing voltage. The missing voltage is the difference between the nominal voltage and
the actual. The converter is normally based on DC voltage energy storage, which will
supply the converter with a DC voltage. IGBTs used in the converter is switched
as per the above fig. 7.5 to 7.7. Normally the VSC is not only used for voltage dip
mitigation, but also for other power quality issues, e.g. flicker and harmonics.
The following figures shows the respective phase voltages of the each phase of the
voltage source converter (VSC).

Figure 7.8: Voltage Vab

CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 40

Figure 7.9: Voltage Vbc

Figure 7.10: Voltage Vac

CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 41

7.3.3 Voltage Dip During Single L-G Fault Without STAT-

COM

The first simulation contains no D-STATCOM and single line to ground fault is
applied, via a fault resistance of 0.2 Ω, during the period 900-1300 ms.
It is clearly seen from the above figure that there is a voltage dip created between 0.9
sec to 1.3 sec due to single phase L-G fault.

Figure 7.11: Voltage Vrms at the load point: Without D-STATCOM

CHAPTER 7. SIMULATION & RESULTS 42

7.3.4 Voltage Dip During Single L-G Fault With D-STATCOM

Similarly, a new set of simulations was carried out but now with the D-STATCOM
connected to the system. Now as seen from the below figure the dip is almost miti-
gated.
After having D-STATCOM in the system, the voltage dip is mitigated during that
particular interval of time and there is no loss of voltage in the system.

Figure 7.12: Voltage Vrms at the load point: With D-STATCOM

Chapter 8

Conclusion and Future Work

8.1 Conclusion
The objective of this work is to mitigate voltage dips and other related problems
like voltage interruptions and thus improving Power Quality using Shunt Controller
STATCOM. In this work, a Sine PWM-based control scheme for control of 2-level
inverter is being implemented. Also the suitable closed loop control schemed is de-
veloped and implemented for precise control. The simulation results carried out in
Matlab/Simulink software shows the corresponding results of the voltage before as
well as after shunt compensation using STATCOM. From the simulation results it is
observed that STATCOM can give some better instantaneous Reactive Power Com-
pensation and thus help in improving power quality.

8.2 Future Work

The future work in this project includes of following things :

a. To develop and fabricate driver card and control card.

b. Based on the Simulink Model, a hardware prototype of D-STATCOM is to be

developed.

43
CHAPTER 8. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK 44

c. Then to compare and validate simulation and practical results.

d. Also if time permits simulation of closed loop control for 3-level STATCOM is
to be done.
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[1] Narain G. Hingorani, Understanding FACTS, IEEE Press

[2] K. R. Padiyar, ”FACTS Controllers in Power Transmission and Distribu-

tion”,New Age International (P) Limited Publishers.

[3] Kalyan K. Sen, Mey Ling Sen, ”Introduction to FACTS Controllers - Theory,
Modeling and Applications”, IEEE Press

[4] R. Mohan Mathur, Rajiv K. Varma, ”Thyristor-Based FACTS Controllers for

Electrical Transmission Systems”, IEEE Press

[5] Cai Rong, ”Analysis of STATCOM for Voltage Dip Mitigation”, Thesis for the
Degree of Master of Science, December 2004.

[6] S.V Ravi Kumar, S. Siva Nagaraju, ”Simulation of D-STATCOM and DVR in
Power Systems”, ARPN Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, VOL. 2,
NO. 3, JUNE 2007.

[7] A-A. Edris, Chair, et al, ”Proposed Terms and Definitions for Flexible AC Trans-
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[8] M. Moghawemi, M.O. Faruque, ”Effects of Facts Devices on Static Voltage Sta-
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REFERENCES 46

[9] Pierre Giroux, Gilbert Sybille, Hoang Le-Huy, ”Modeling and Simulation of a
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