Unified power-flow control concept for flexible AC transmission systems

The author outlines the technical and economic factors which characterise the uniform, all solid-state power-flow controller approach for real-time controlled, flexible AC transmission systems. The unified power-flow controller in its general form can provide simultaneous, real-time control of all basic power system parameters (transmission voltage, impedance, and phase angle), or any combinations thereof, determining the transmitted power. The parameters selected for control can be changed without hardware alterations, e.g. the function of the controller can be changed from that of a phase-shifter to that of a series line compensator, or vice versa, with or without additional terminal voltage regulation and shunt VAr compensation, to adapt to particular short term contingencies or future system modifications