A Parallel Framework for Robust State Estimation Using Node-Breaker Substation Models

Topic 1

As the centerpiece of an energy management system (EMS), power system state estimation (SE) is one of the most critical functions for situational awareness. An accurate SE solution is not only crucial for reliable operation of the system, but also for all downstream applications related to the energy markets. A key assumption in the SE formulation is that the correct topology of the network is known, i.e., all the switch and circuit breaker (CB) statuses inside a substation are communicated accurately to the topology processor. Due to equipment failures, telemetry errors, malicious cyber-attacks or manual entry mistakes by operators, this assumption can become invalid and jeopardize the accuracy of SE. In this talk, a highly efficient and robust LAV-based SE algorithm that can simultaneously reject bad measurement data and eliminate topology errors is proposed. The increase in problem dimension due to the inclusion of all CBs is addressed by dividing the network model into smaller independent sub-networks and processing them in parallel on separate processors.

Topic 2

Increased penetration of renewable generation resources (e.g., wind and solar) is pushing the performance of today’s transmission grids to new limits in many regions around the world. To ensure power systems can be fully utilized without jeopardizing reliability, inverter-based smart devices, such as STATCOMs, can be used to provide reactive power support needed for voltage stability. However, the operational complexity of power systems is increasing due to the addition of all these smart inverters to the grid. Electromagnetic transient programs offer the most detailed analysis to study the control interactions of all the devices connected to the grid. This talk will cover the latest power system analysis methods for modeling inverter-based resources in power system studies. 

In addition to addressing voltage stability problems with STATCOMs, high-temperature superconductors (HTS) can be used to increase the resiliency of power networks by increasing the power transfer capability. An HTS-based cable system, installed parallel to the existing transmission lines, allow the bulk transfer of power at distribution voltages. Cables that utilize HTS wire have no resistance to the flow of electricity and can transmit up to 10 times more power than conventional cables. A brief overview of HTS technology and its power system applications will be discussed during this talk.