PDCI damping control analysis for the western North American power system

TLDR

Transmission capacity in the western North American power system is constrained by poorly‑damped electromechanical oscillations, and existing generator‑based damping controllers are ineffective for inter‑area modes, prompting interest in wide‑area measurement‑enabled control strategies. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of Pacific DC Intertie (PDCI) damping control in the wNAPS through simulation and open‑loop system probing. The authors design a feedback modulation strategy for the PDCI, simulate its impact on system damping, and conduct open‑loop probing tests to validate the control approach.

Abstract

Transmission capacity in the western North American power system (termed the wNAPS) is often limited by poorly-damped electromechanical oscillations. To date, the primary damping controllers applied in the wNAPS are via generator controls using localized feedback signals. Such controls have limited effectiveness for inter-area modes. Recent development of reliable real-time wide-area measurement systems (WAMS) has enabled the potential for large-scale damping control approaches. One such approach is feedback modulation of the Pacific DC Intertie (PDCI). This paper summarizes simulation results from a study to evaluate PDCI damping control in the wNAPS. This includes developing a safe and effective control strategy, quantifying potential improved damping, and conducting open-loop actual-system probing tests.