Capacitor-less VAR compensator based on matrix converter

Reactive power compensation in the electrical utility system employs static VAR compensators (SVCs) and static compensators (STATCOMs). However, these solutions are based upon large banks of capacitors, a component known to have reliability problems. Over decades of service life, these capacitors must be continuously monitored and periodically replaced - adding maintenance and operational costs. This paper proposes a VAR compensator based on a 3/3 matrix converter that uses inductors instead, which are maintenance-free, rugged, and do not suffer from the same wear-out mechanisms that limit the service life of capacitors. The proposed compensator is seen as a better solution to reactive power compensation in view of its higher reliability and long-term levelized cost benefits.