Real-Time Applications for Power-Systems

Dear Colleagues,

Literally speaking, real time applications are nothing new in electric power systems (EPS); actually, their very fundamental operating principle is based on real time adaptation of generators’ governor and voltage controls to meet users’ and EPS’ needs. For about 100 years, such a principle worked perfectly. The new EPS paradigm, called either “Energievende”, “decarbonisation” or “green transition” (among other terms), brings fundamental changes into the EPSs’ operating principles, as well as into energy transmission and distribution philosophy. If these concepts, determined largely by political decisions and commitments, should be realized, the conventional concept of EPS transmission and distribution simply will not be sufficient. Especially considering the public refusal to physical enhancement of EPSs (new lines, stations etc.), the most promising option seems to be an adaptation of transmission and distribution systems to operating situations in real time, applying solutions based on power electronics, modern IT, wide area online data, etc.

Such an approach, entitled either a SmartGrid or Smart Transmission Grid or WAMPAC, is based on real-time measurements, real-time protection (re-)settings, real-time power electronics-based (FACTS) devices’ operation-control-mode adaptations. Besides, different approaches in using controllable devices are expected. According to “operational logic” nowadays, the potential of controllable devices is not fully used, since the majority of them operate so as to fulfil pre-defined tasks in a pre-defined manner, based on local measurements and controlling local parameters. This is not an optimal use of available resources and does not ensure the maximum operating reliability of an EPS. In order to achieve “optimal” EPS operation in all senses (reliability, costs, etc.), the whole EPS should be adapted to a momentary situation in real time. Of course, easy to say, difficult to realize, but one should at least have this “holy grail” in mind and proceed with smaller steps into the right direction. Of course, realization of such a concept inevitably includes answers to the question “Where are we?”, i.e. dynamic stability assessment, WAMS, WAMPAC; after all, all the equipment has to be entirely tested for situations that may happen in a real EPS, which brings us into the world of real-time digital simulation.

The objective of this Special Issue is to address questions regarding real time applications in EPS, either in the field of real time EPSs’ state identification (e.g. dynamic security assessment), real time adaptation of protection and control (WAMPAC), or needs for real time digital simulation for device testing or EPS operation support.

Prof. Dr. Rafael Mihalič
Dr. Panos Kotsampopoulos
Dr. Vincent Debusschere
Guest Editors

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