Power Quality Improvement in Distribution System using D-Statcom in Transmission Lines

A Power quality problem is an occurrence manifested as a nonstandard voltage, current or frequency that results in a failure or a mis-operation of end user equipments. Utility distribution networks, sensitive industrial loads and critical commercial operations suffer from various types of outages and service interruptions which can cost significant financial losses. With the restructuring of power systems and with shifting trend towards distributed and dispersed generation, the issue of power quality is going to take newer dimensions. In developing countries like India, where the variation of power frequency and many such other determinants of power quality are themselves a serious question, it is very vital to take positive steps in this direction. The present work is to identify the prominent concerns in this area and hence the measures that can enhance the quality of the power are recommended. This paper presents the enhancement of voltage sags/swell; harmonic distortion and low power factor using Distribution Static Compensator (D-STATCOM). The model is based on the Voltage Source Converter (VSC) principle. The D-STATCOM injects a current into the system to mitigate the voltage sags/swell to improve harmonic distortion and low power factor. The simulations were performed using MATLAB SIMULINK version R2009b.