Serving low load levels by derating line voltage using step down transformers

Popi Melato, Nhlanhla Mbuli, Jan Harm Pretorius

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Steady state voltage problems in power systems are those associated with undervoltages resulting from increasing loads. Steady overvoltages can also arise when loads served by networks are reduced, and the problem can be exacerbated if lines supplying load centres are long. This paper reports on a study that was conducted to assess the impact of derating voltage of lines, by using step down transformers on the lowest load a network can accommodate without overvoltages. A program written in Python and using PSS/E to perform loadflows, was used to perform analyses at various load levels. The study showed that with derating transformers installed, voltages in the system were better, there was less reactive power flow, and active power losses were lower. Derating lines using step down transformers is therefore a potential solution for serving low load levels.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings - 2015 50th International Universities Power Engineering Conference, UPEC 2015
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
ISBN (Electronic)9781467396820
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 30 Nov 2015
Event50th International Universities Power Engineering Conference, UPEC 2015 - Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom
Duration: 1 Sept 20154 Sept 2015

Publication series

NameProceedings of the Universities Power Engineering Conference
Volume2015-November

Conference

Conference50th International Universities Power Engineering Conference, UPEC 2015
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityStoke-on-Trent
Period1/09/154/09/15

Keywords

  • Active power losses
  • Power System Simulator for Engineering (PSS/E)
  • Python Programming Language
  • steady state overvoltages
  • step down transformers

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology

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