Modern synchronous condenser performance considerations

Many transmission entities around the world are considering the use of modern synchronous condensers as part of their overall transmission solution. This paper explores the performance characteristics of synchronous condensers and provides reasons why this time-proven technology is now again seen as offering many beneficial characteristics to the transmission grid. Of particular interest are applications in small isolated systems with high penetrations of renewable power sources. Such systems magnify the benefits provided by the synchronous condenser. Another common application involves placement of synchronous condensers electrically near HVDC installations to increase the system short circuit MVA. This paper reports on observations from one particular system that has been studied which involves all of the above situations.