Fuzzy Inference System for VOLT/VAR control in distribution substations in isolated power systems

TL;DR

This paper introduces a fuzzy inference system for voltage and reactive power control in isolated distribution substations, aiming to enhance automation and operational efficiency despite limited control capabilities.

Contribution

A novel fuzzy controller based on heuristic rules from operator experience is designed and tested in real conditions for isolated power systems.

Findings

Maintained acceptable voltage profiles during operation.

Achieved power factor values over 0.98.

Improved system performance over traditional optimal power flow methods.

Abstract

This paper presents a fuzzy inference system for voltage/reactive power control in distribution substations. The purpose is go forward to automation distribution and its implementation in isolated power systems where control capabilities are limited and it is common using the same applications as in continental power systems. This means that lot of functionalities do not apply and computational burden generates high response times. A fuzzy controller, with logic guidelines embedded based upon heuristic rules resulting from operators at dispatch control center past experience, has been designed. Working as an on-line tool, it has been tested under real conditions and it has managed the operation during a whole day in a distribution substation. Within the limits of control capabilities of the system, the controller maintained successfully an acceptable voltage profile, power factor values over 0,98 and it has ostensibly improved the performance given by an optimal power flow based automation system.