Beyond SCR in Weak Grids: Analytical Evaluation of Voltage Stability and Excess System Strength

Abstract

Due to the continuous increase (decrease) in the number of inverter-based (synchronous) generators in modern electrical power systems, the theoretical foundations behind widely used system strength and voltage stability assessment methods require thorough revision. The existing evaluation methods such as the Short-Circuit Ratio (SCR) are often based on simplifications which may produce inaccuracies, particularly when studying weak systems. As a result, a misleading estimation of voltage stability can occur, exposing systems to unnecessary renewables curtailment or other inappropriate remedial actions that may cause partial disruptions or potential instability. This paper provides a rigorous analytical revision of voltage stability assessment to confidently evaluate the maximum power transfer under various operating conditions. Subsequently, the proposed approach is applied as an enhanced method of system strength evaluation. The method is extensively tested on a single-machine-infinite-bus test system. Numerical results show a notably more accurate assessment relative to the common alternative methods.