Evaluation of distribution circuit voltage with secondary voltage controlled capacitor installations

The voltage profile on a distribution circuit is becoming more difficult to maintain as more dynamic generation, such as solar, is connected. A high penetration of solar generation can lead to increased voltage deviations which, in turn, can increase the number of operations on expensive distribution automation equipment. This paper analyzed a new approach to mitigate voltage fluctuations. The voltage fluctuations studied in this paper were not from a renewable generation source, but instead were from the day to day dynamic load flow on the studied circuit. However, the performance of the technology studied in this paper gives an indication of how the technology operates with a dynamic voltage profile. The revolutionary technology was able to provide voltage support at different locations on the circuit by using dynamic reactive power injection. Results from a field installation proved that the secondary installed, voltage-controlled capacitors could not only support low voltage, but could also reduce the number of voltage deviations on the circuit.