Simulation of FACTS devices as reactive power compensators and voltage controllers in the smart grid

This paper provides a modeling platform for students to understand and study power system dynamics using Matlab® and PSCAD/EMTDC® when Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices for reactive power compensation and voltage control are implemented. In this study, a proposed power system's voltage profile has been modeled and analyzed using Matlab® and PSCAD/EMTDC® to determine the optimum parameters for the design of FACTS devices, such as Static VAR Compensator (SVC) and Thyristor Controlled Series Compensator (TCSC). A tutorial was developed as part of the Smart Grid Control Systems course at SUNY University at Buffalo. This tutorial provides the insight for both undergraduate and graduate students as well as practicing engineers. It helps them to understand FACTS devices design and implementation by highlighting their main characteristics and enhancing performance of the power system they are being integrated with.