Real-time power system simulators: contributing to the successful development of complex power systems

It´s not easy being a power system. The complexity of power transmission systems has increased drastically over the past few decades due to economic and environmental constraints. Interconnections, static VAr compensators, series capacitors, multiterminal HVDC systems, as well as sophisticated control and protection schemes have a growing impact on modem power systems. The degree of sophistication is such that planning, design and operation is virtually impossible without comprehensive computer systems. Over the past few decades we have seen a revolution in the availability and use of power system simulation techniques and tools. In this paper, the authors review the potential impact of these devices on the successful planning, design and operation of complex power systems