Optimization of Power Factor for Operation of Small Hydro Stations

Hundreds of small hydroelectric power stations (small hydro stations) are operated simultaneously in some mountainous areas; they supply plentiful electric energy for the power network every year. Therefore, how to determine the optimal operating condition of small hydro stations, especially for reasonable power factor (PF), is very important to stability and economy of power network. This paper introduces the power loss and nodal voltage sensitivity with respect to power factor, and then the reactive power optimization problem can be translated into the determination of an optimal power factor. The analysis is based on a realistic example, the Shaoguan power network. At the same time, some suggestions are also made for improving calculation and control of optimal power factor of small hydro stations in the Shaoguan power network.