Case study of the impact of a magnetic storm on a Hydro-Québec distribution feeder

This paper deals with the effects of geomagnetic storms on Hydro-Quebecpsilas distribution network through the real-life case of the utilitypsilas 25 kV network which supplies the Mistissini Cree community about 500 km north of Montreal, Canada. The paper begins with a description of the 25 kV network and then examines a few unusual events that occurred between 2000 and 2005. Then, the approach that was used to draw a correlation between the chance events of the past years and geomagnetic storms will be explained. After the impact of these events on the distribution network is described, mitigation means are proposed to reduce their impact.