SVC for 69 kV direct grid connection

SVC (Static Var Compensator) is a member of the FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission System) family. By means of thyristor control of reactive power, it enables dynamic voltage control at the point of common connection with a grid. A directly connected SVC is an SVC where there is no need for a step-down transformer to be connected between the power grid and the SVC. Obviously, this offers a number of benefits, such as a simplified SVC scheme, hardware cost savings, reduced footprint, less losses, and others. Of course, to enable direct connection of an SVC to a 69 kV grid requires a number of developments to SVC schemes, particularly where thyristor valves are concerned. This is treated in detail in the paper. SVC performance in a current 69 kV case is highlighted, and furthermore, a couple of particular applications of directly connected SVCs are presented.