Rodney Yeu with adviser P. W. Sauer

Figure 39: Eigenvalue tracking.

Figure 39: Eigenvalue tracking.

Small-signal stability analysis of a power system is used to determine if the power system can withstand small disturbances and operate in a satisfactory manner. This is traditionally accomplished by looking at the eigenvalues of a linearized power system. Once it is found that a power system is unstable, a corrective measure needs to be taken so that instability does not result.

One common problem that exists in the modern power system is low-frequency oscillations that lead to instability. This problem was solved by using a power system stabilizer (PSS) to damp out the unwanted oscillations. A question that arises from the use of PSS is on which generator the PSS should be placed. Traditionally, sensitivity analysis of eigenvalues is done to determine which states participate the most in the instability and place the PSS at the generator of those states.

In this research a new method for the placement of PSS was developed. This method tracks the eigenvalues of the power system as it is being decoupled to separated systems of single-generator infinite buses. The mode associated with the single generator tracks to the unstable mode of the power system and determines where the PSS should be placed. An example of this tracking is shown in Figure 39. It can be seen that the unstable mode of the power system shown by the black cross can be tracked to generator 1 and hence a PSS should be placed at this generator.

This work is supported by Grainger Fellowships.