BC hydro experience using a small STATCOM to address utility voltage problems

FACTS (flexible AC transmission system) devices such as static compensators (STATCOMs) have long been used to solve utility voltage problems. Generally these have been on large-scale installations on interconnected systems providing economies of scale benefits for the utilities. Recent developments and availability of smaller capacity, modular STATCOMs have proved to be just as useful for utilities in addressing a wider array of problems-from voltage regulation of weak transmission systems to multiple just-in-time installations to prevent voltage collapse and improve system stability and reliability. BC Hydro, Vancouver Canada, recently installed a small STATCOM, an 8 MVA D-VAR^™ device, in their system at Fort St. James substation to prevent voltage collapse in the 66-kV long radial system and as a means to defer costly transmission reinforcement. This paper outlines the system analysis, procurement, installation and performance of the D-VAR at Fort St. James along with modeling and other applications of small STATCOM devices such as D-VAR for transmission and distribution applications.