Applications of Solid-State Fault Current Limiters for Transient Stability Enhancement of Wind Power Generation Systems

Due to recent advocating of the high renewable generation penetration and continuous increasing in load demands, interconnected power systems are subjected to over-rating of circuit breakers and substation equipments. Although various technologies can overcome high short-circuit level problems, none of conventional solutions provides extra transmission capability or ability to control or redirect the power flow. In this paper, the solid-state fault current limiter (SSFCL) will be investigated for transient stability enhancement of practical large-scale power systems. A controllable resistive type fault current limiter (CR-FCL) is first developed for comparative studies. A single DC reactor fault current limiter, which does not require switching device or control system, is then proposed for lower cost and simple operation. Circuit configurations and corresponding simulation models in real-time simulation environments will be investigated in details. By proper locating the transient limiters, transient stability enhancement can be demonstrated through real-time simulator OPAL-RT.