PMU Data-Driven Real-time Vulnerability Assessment of Power Systems with High Penetration of Renewable Energy Sources

Energy transition dictates that most of the energy being produced in the future will come from renewable energy resources (RES). While the benefits of such transition are clear, power systems are experiencing unprecedented changes in their operation and control. Unlike conventional power sources (e.g. coal-fired power plants), RES are often coupled to the grid using power electronics devices, which results in a very different dynamic behaviour. The level of uncertainty and complexity increases drastically, and if the systems are to continue to supply power reliably, advanced intelligent solutions must be implemented in the grid. The first step is to obtain more frequent and accurate measurements. Novel measurement technologies, such as synchrophasor measurement units (PMUs), allow more precise grid state observability, providing system operators with more information on the system dynamics. The number of such units is increasing rapidly in the grid, as they are recognized to be the leading technology that enables for this goal to be achieved. However, comprehensively utilizing this data is challenging and is a subject of this PhD project.Some of the main concerns identified by the power system operators are voltage stability, power swings and oscillations. The PhD project aims to combine traditional measurements with advanced PMU data, providing possibilities for enhanced grid observability. With such data, novel vulnerability assessment algorithms will be derived, enabling instability predictions and stability margin evaluations in real-time. Finally, suitable wide-area control strategies will be designed to preserve grid resilience even with a high share of RES. The project is supported by several industry partners, ensuring practical feasibility of the derived solutions.