Role of FACTS devices in enhancing integration of renewable energy sources to the grid: a review

Abstract

The modern power system is facing challenges such as exponential growth in demand, constrained infrastructure and deregulation of electricity markets. For a sustainable energy system, it is necessary to meet energy need by utilizing renewable energy sources (RES), which have minimum environmental impact. Over the last two decades, renewable energy generation and integration into the grid has received a lot of attention worldwide. In 2017 alone, more than half of all new electricity capacity installed globally was from RES. However, RES such as solar photovoltaic and wind energy are intermittent in nature. Integrating variable generating sources into the grid can cause problems such as voltage fluctuations and interruptions, which affect the performance of utility equipment as well as end user. Over the years, flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) device utilization in power systems has been on the rise. FACTS refer to the application of power semi-conductor devices to control electrical variables, thus influencing power flow and enhancing power system security. This paper investigates the role of FACTS devices in expediting renewable energy integration in power systems. Challenges associated with renewable energy injection into the grid, and how FACTS devices can mitigate these issues is presented. We conclude that the penetration rate of renewable energy will be accelerated if FACTS devices are incorporated in RES integration projects.