Stability Constrained Available Transfer Capability

Exhibitor: Jin Han Teng

Supervisor: Zhao Dong

Research Group: Complex and Intelligent Systems

Industry Sector: Energy and Utilities

Transfer of bulk electrical power over long distances is routine in power system planning in order to have a reliable and economical electrical supply. For example, hydroelectric power generated in Canada can be transferred to consumers and industry in Los Angles using the high voltage transmission system. But the transmission system has a limited capability to transfer power. The maximum power that can be transferred is called the available transfer capability (ATC). To operate the power system safely and to gain the benefits of the bulk power transfers, the transfer capabilities must be calculated and the power system planned and operated so that the power transfers do not exceed the transfer capability.

Available transfer capability indicates how much inter-area power transfers can be increased without compromising system stability. Accurate identification of this capability provides vital information for both planning and operation of the bulk power market. Repeated estimates of transfer capabilities are needed to ensure that the combined effects of power transfers do not cause an undue risk of system overloads, equipment damage or blackouts. However, an overly conservative estimate of transfer capability unnecessarily limits the power transfers and is a costly and inefficient use of the network.

This thesis research will look into the aspects of ATC and voltage stability. The ATC is calculated by increasing one or more variables in a system until the voltage instability is detected in one of the bus. The amount of power flowing between 2 areas is the ATC of the 2 areas.

The ATC is a good component for power system planning. It maximizes the efficiency of the power systems while protecting the system from any voltage instability and system overloads like the recent US blackout.

Thesis Document (PDF)