Flicker in the Networks with Distributed Generation Plants and Its Removal Using Group Prognostic Controller
Abstract The use of distributed generation (DG) plants in electrical energy system (EES) produces unambiguous effect on power quality. The presence of DG plants allows to reduce losses associated with power transmission and maintain the required voltage levels. In this case, the presence of DG can cause voltage fluctuation, leading to the appearance of flicker, which is understood as a feeling of instability of visual perception. Similar processes can occur at sharp disturbances close proximity to the DG. The situation can be aggravated by improperly configured DG generators controllers. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct an accurate assessment of the DG plants impact on the power grid, which is a rather time consuming task. The article presents results of the EES working modes simulation with a DG plant implemented on the basis of synchronous turbine generators. The results obtained indicated that during temporary connection of heavy load in the connection unit of DG plant and the use of non-concordantly tuned controllers, there are fluctuations in rotor speed and voltage of generators, the analysis of which indicates the presence of flicker. The same effect can obtained a sudden change in the forecast time for individual controllers of turbine generators speed. Flicker can be removed by applying group control of generators speed controllers.