Fast Online Stability Monitoring Trough Identification of Weak Interfaces in Bulk Power Systems

A key factor affecting system stability is the secure operation of critical (weak) interfaces, which can be compromised by excessive power flows and unexpected overloads.

This study addresses a novel approach to power system stability monitoring by identifying weak interfaces in real-time operational conditions. A weak interface is defined as a new network interface where transmission limits may be reached before than in other predefined and monitored interfaces. Traditional tools typically monitor a predefined set of interfaces and may fail to detect new emerging weak points, especially in market-driven power systems characterized by long-distance power transfers and loop flows. As a result, dispatchers may become desensitized to evolving risks and overlook critical stability threats.

Following exhausting testing, presented in this article, the software tool has been commissioned at the Control Centre of Interconnected Power System (IPS) of Ukraine, where it is now used as SCADA add-on. It assists power system operators in monitoring system stability through the online identification of weak (stability-constrained) grid interfaces.