Voltage Regulation Using Capacitors and Intelligent Capacitor Control

Some electric utilities have unregulated distribution substations that were designed to use the distribution line capacitor banks to regulate the voltage and VAR flow to the customer. This paper will discuss the advantages of real-time data and the operation and maintenance advantages of an intelligent centralized capacitor bank control system to optimize voltage and VARs. The results of the automation solutions are beneficial in the aspects of voltage control, power factor, monitoring of substation transformers and other equipment, as well as reduced site visits, enhanced communications and improved planning capabilities