Comparison of calculated and measured flicker values for two different network topologies

Frequent customer complaints resulting from high flicker levels in part of the Slovenian high-voltage network have necessitated an in-depth study of the source of such high flicker levels and means of flicker mitigation. Flicker measurements in several network nodes point to a local arc furnace as the single largest source of high flicker in the area. Calculation of flicker levels in the area via load flow and current injection method for two different network topologies — with connected and disconnected 110 kV busbars near the arc furnace — prove to be in good agreement with measurements. The current injection method is further employed in two simulation cases of flicker propagation in the network in 2020 and in an additional simulation, performed after the assumed installation of a STATCOM device.