Configuration Strategies of Reactive Power Compensation in Converter Stations with STATCOM

Installing static synchronous compensators (STATCOM) is one of the key methods to mitigate the issues of voltage fluctuation in converter stations connected to weak AC systems. This paper introduces an optimised mathematical model which provides the configuration strategies of reactive power compensation and determines the optimal size of capacitor banks in the receiving converter station with STATCOM installed. The model also considers the steady-state operation conditions of AC-DC systems, and both steady-state and transient reactive power characteristics of STATCOM. A case study is used to verify the model, which considers a back-to-back interconnection project located at the southern region of China. The case study successfully proves the adaptability and rationality of the model, demonstrating it is suitable to be used for reactive power compensation strategies of receiving converter station projects during preliminary studies.