Review of generator and excitation system specification and test requirements to satisfy multiple international grid code standards

Manufacturers of turbine generators and excitation systems build equipment according to application requirements for particular projects which usually invoke international standards such as IEEE C50.13 and IEC 60034. Local connection rules, in the form of grid codes, NERC or ISO documents, must also be followed and these rules can have a significant influence on the design of the equipment. Partly as a result of the increasing impact of renewable generation, grid codes around the world have been undergoing updates which are causing engineers specifying generators and excitation systems to take special care to ensure equipment will be compliant. This paper examines generator and excitation system related aspects of grid codes from different parts of the world, highlighting key technical aspects such as short circuit ratio and transient voltage control plus requirements for testing. The paper also considers the associated cost implications for the various implementation options.