Operational Experience of STATCOM in POWERGRID- challenges and mitigation

For the enhancement of grid stability and regulating voltage levels to improve power quality and system stability, power electronics based Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) working on Voltage source converter (VSC) technology is worldwide accepted due to its dynamic behavior of reactive power compensation along with steady state voltage regulation of the electrical grid. STATCOM’s fast dynamic response with compact design makes it superior for renewable integration substations where generation is unpredictable and hence the voltage profile. ±300 MVAr STATCOM was strategically installed at 400 kV level of substation A within the Northern Electrical Grid of India for fast acting dynamic voltage support, improves system stability especially under high load or contingency conditions in the region. The STATCOM station was commissioned in December 2020 and operational for over more than four years. During this period, several operational challenges were encountered and successfully resolved to maintain the STATCOM availability at fullest.