Monitoring the North American interconnections at distribution level

Abstract

The North American Frequency Monitoring Network (FNET) is a wide-area measurement system that monitors the North American Interconnections at distribution voltage level. A situational awareness system has been implemented on the server located at Virginia Tech to detect and analyze power system disturbances in near-real time. This paper demonstrates the viability of monitoring bulk transmission systems at a very low voltage level by discussing several major disturbances in the Eastern Interconnection (EI) observed by FNET. Important parameters of power systems, such as frequency, voltage and phase angle, are examined to understand system behavior during disturbances. The recordings and analysis show that a great deal of valuable information about dynamics in transmission systems can be obtained at a lower voltage level. The disturbance location estimation is also analyzed as an application of the distribution-level measurements.

Voltage phase angle variation in relation to wind power

“…To acquire this data for research purposes may take many months and access may be limited. However, it has been shown that transmission side disturbances can be detected at the distribution level [5], [6]. These disturbances on the transmission system are reflected in system variables (frequency, voltage magnitude, and phase angle) that are measured by PMUs at the distribution side [6].…”

“…However, it has been shown that transmission side disturbances can be detected at the distribution level [5], [6]. These disturbances on the transmission system are reflected in system variables (frequency, voltage magnitude, and phase angle) that are measured by PMUs at the distribution side [6]. It has been observed that disturbances occurring on the transmission side are also seen in the distribution side measurements taken by PMUs in the Texas synchrophasor network [1].…”

“…In [5] and [6] large disturbances including generator trips or drops in load are studied. Operating experience gained in the past year of the Texas Indpendent Synchrophasor Network has reinforced and confirmed the fidelity and quality of 120-V phase angle data in capturing transmission systems' phenomena as well.…”