The use of distribution bus var to improve transmission power quality - Forgoing Flicker

This article reviews the application of an adaptive var compensator (AVC) to reduce voltage flicker associated with the starting of large motors. The case considered here involves the sequential starting of two 2,000-hp motors in an across-the-line mode. The motors are served by a dedicated 44 kV- 4.16 kV substation. The source 44-kV transmission line also serves over 7,000 residential and commercial customers through two widely separated 44 kV-12.5 kV substations. Several methods of reducing flicker were considered. Customer complaints associated with voltage excursions during motor starting were successfully resolved.