Size comparison of MVDC and D-UPFC for MV distribution network interconnection

In spite of the existing current deployment barriers, power-electronics-based devices are presented as potential candidates to interconnect active distribution grids. The objective of the present article is to expose a comparison between two concurrent VSC-based topologies suitable to control power flow between two MV distribution networks, namely the MVDC and D-UPFC. Mathematical formulae necessary to determine the minimum required installed power of the MVDC and the D-UPFC is developed and different cases are numerically calculated. Conclusions are derived in regard of the relative size of the devices. The article concludes with an analysis and description of additional aspects that must be accounted for by system planners.