Agent-based prevention of voltage collapse in electrical transmission systems

Abstract

Changing dynamics of power systems caused by the large-scale penetration of renewable energy sources and a different behaviour of future distribution networks increase the risk of large-scale blackouts due to voltage collapse, especially in case of unforeseen network conditions (e.g., (N-k)-cases). To enable a both secure and efficient power supply, novel emergency control systems are required that react reliably in due time and adaptively in case of changing network situations. This paper presents a distributed control approach for the prevention of voltage collapse by a coordinated activation of available countermeasures, in particular acting on distribution transformers, curtailing load as well as deploying the flexibilities of HVDC-converters and underlying active distribution networks. As the proposed scheme is based on limited system observability and only relies on local measurements, complete system information is not required. The applicability of the approach is demonstrated in a co-simulation with a dynamic power system simulation.