Grid Edge Control: A new approach for volt-var optimization

Abstract

A new approach to achieving volt-var control through the use of fast-acting distributed hybrid power electronics devices at the grid edge is proposed. It is shown that there is a missing layer of control at the grid edge which the conventional approaches do not address. Through field demonstration of 91, 10 kVAR devices on a 13 kV, 6 MW feeder, up to 5% CVR, 72% reduction in voltage volatility, 80% reduction in voltage unbalance and feeder level dynamic var control using the proposed grid edge control is presented.