Dynamic Capabilities of Distributed Reactive Power Sources

As electricity feed-in is shifting from transmission grids towards distribution grids, future grid management strategies will have to include greater contributions to system stability coming from distributed reactive power sources. In this study, grid data from a segment of the German transmission network and an underlying distribution grid is examined. By identifying the reactive power sources, the potential of each technology for an extended usage of their reactive power capabilities for grid management is assessed. Moreover, the dynamic behavior of different reactive power sources is investigated. For this purpose, measurement values of set-point changes of various reactive power sources, guideline regulations and theoretical considerations are compared. The results allow for a comprehensive comparison of the dynamic behavior of these reactive power sources and can contribute to a better utilization of their potential.As electricity feed-in is shifting from transmission grids towards distribution grids, future grid management strategies will have to include greater contributions to system stability coming from distributed reactive power sources. In this study, grid data from a segment of the German transmission network and an underlying distribution grid is examined. By identifying the reactive power sources, the potential of each technology for an extended usage of their reactive power capabilities for grid management is assessed. Moreover, the dynamic behavior of different reactive power sources is investigated. For this purpose, measurement values of set-point changes of various reactive power sources, guideline regulations and theoretical considerations are compared. The results allow for a comprehensive comparison of the dynamic behavior of these reactive power sources and can contribute to a better utilization of their potential.