Thin AC converters — A new approach for making existing grid assets smart and controllable

Existing techniques for realizing dynamic grid control have involved the use of FACTS devices such as STATCOMs, where the desired functionality is obtained in a single dasiablack-boxpsila device. These devices are deployed in addition to resources that already exist on the grid. This paper proposes a new approach for using dasiathin AC converterspsila to convert existing dasiadumbpsila grid assets into dasiasmart and controllablepsila assets, resulting in significant cost reduction and enhanced asset availability. The technique is seen to be scalable to high power levels, and can convert shunt VAR capacitors into STATCOMs, and can convert load tap changing transformers into dynamic network control devices. New dasiathin AC converterpsila topologies for realizing high-voltage and high-power are detailed along with analysis, control and operating results.