Voltage source converters for maintaining of power quality and stability in power distribution

Applied to power systems, voltage source converters with ratings reaching into the 100 MVA range enable effective dynamic as well as steady-state voltage control in subtransmission and distribution of power, as well as control of power quality. In comparison to traditional means like building of new lines, or upgrading of feeding voltages, this offers rational and economical utilisation of existing power systems. SVC Lightreg is a concept based on a fast controllable voltage source converter and a filter bank. The paper highlights its technology as well as two important applications: flicker abatement in steel plants based on electric arc furnace metallurgy, and voltage stabilisation in weak grids fed by large wind power plants