Synchronous Condensers: Enhancing Stability in Power Systems with Grid-Following Inverters

TL;DR

This paper explores how synchronous condensers can improve power system stability by mitigating issues caused by grid-following inverters, through analysis and electromagnetic transient simulations.

Contribution

It demonstrates the stabilizing effects of synchronous condensers on grid stability and discusses their optimal placement to prevent destabilization.

Findings

Synchronous condensers enhance angular stability, frequency response, and voltage stability.

Their effectiveness depends on strategic placement within the power grid.

Interactions with other grid components can potentially destabilize the system if not properly managed.

Abstract

Large-scale integration of inverter-based resources into power grids worldwide is challenging their stability and security. This paper takes a closer look at synchronous condensers as a solution to mitigate stability challenges caused by the preponderance of grid-following inverters. It finds that while they are not grid-forming assets themselves, they could enhance grid stability. Throughout this paper, different facets of power system stability and their underlying phenomena are discussed. In addition, instances of instability and mitigation strategies using synchronous condenser are demonstrated using electromagnetic transient simulations. The analysis in this paper highlights the underlying mechanism by which synchronous condensers enhance angular stability, frequency response, and voltage stability. Moreover, it underscores the criticality of their choice of location by demonstrating the destabilizing behavior that could be initiated by the interactions of synchronous condensers.