FACTS: Present and Future
FACTS: Present and Future
Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) represent Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) are at the
a leading innovation in the field of transmission technology, forefront of the evolving power system landscape, driven by
revolutionizing how electrical power is managed and the need for enhanced flexibility, stability, and efficiency in
distributed across the grid. FACTS devices improve the modern grids. The integration of FACTS has fundamentally
efficiency, stability, and reliability of power transmission, changed how power system parameters such as voltage
addressing traditional limitations of electrical networks. By stability, power flow, and reactive power management are
allowing for real-time control of power flow and reactive controlled. Below are the key ways in which FACTS are
power compensation, FACTS enhance the ability of altering power system parameters[8]:
transmission systems to handle variable loads and integrate
renewable energy sources effectively[6]. Voltage Stability and Control:
FACTS devices like Static Synchronous Compensators
As a leader in transmission technology, FACTS offer (STATCOM) and Static VAR Compensators (SVC) have
several key advantages. significantly improved voltage stability across power
networks. These devices provide rapid voltage support,
Enhanced Grid Stability and Control: especially during disturbances, by dynamically adjusting
FACTS devices, such as Static Synchronous reactive power. This capability is crucial for maintaining
Compensators (STATCOM) and Unified Power Flow voltage levels within desired limits, thus preventing voltage
Controllers (UPFC), provide rapid response to voltage collapse, especially in grids with high levels of intermittent
fluctuations and transient disturbances. This capability renewable energy.
enhances system stability, reduces the risk of blackouts, and
supports continuous operation even under adverse conditions. Enhanced Power Flow Management:
Traditional power systems face challenges with optimal
Increased Power Transfer Capability: power flow due to the physical constraints of transmission
FACTS enable existing transmission lines to carry more lines and varying load conditions. FACTS devices, such as
power without the need for extensive infrastructure upgrades. the Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) and Thyristor-
By dynamically managing the power flow, FACTS devices Controlled Series Capacitors (TCSC), enable real-time
can maximize the capacity of the grid, reduce congestion, and control of power flow along transmission lines. These
optimize the overall utilization of transmission assets. technologies allow operators to redirect power away from
congested paths, maximize line utilization, and improve
Improved Power Quality and Reduced Losses: overall system efficiency without the need for costly
FACTS mitigate issues such as voltage sags, flickers, infrastructure upgrades.
and harmonics, significantly improving power quality. They
also minimize transmission losses by adjusting the reactive Improved Reactive Power Compensation:
power in the system, contributing to more efficient energy Managing reactive power is critical for maintaining the
distribution. voltage levels necessary for the efficient operation of power
systems. FACTS technologies provide superior reactive
Facilitation of Renewable Integration: power compensation compared to traditional methods. This
The growing integration of renewable energy sources enhancement reduces transmission losses, minimizes the
like wind and solar poses challenges to grid stability due to need for additional generation resources, and ensures that the
their intermittent nature. FACTS devices support this grid operates closer to its optimal state, especially under
integration by providing fast reactive power support, variable load conditions.
stabilizing voltage levels, and ensuring smooth power
transfer. Dynamic Stability and Damping of Oscillations:
Power systems are prone to oscillations due to changes
Scalable and Flexible Solutions: in load, faults, or integration of renewable energy sources.
FACTS technologies are modular and can be FACTS devices like the Static Synchronous Series
customized to address specific transmission challenges, Compensator (SSSC) and TCSC help dampen these
making them versatile tools for both new and existing grid oscillations, enhancing the dynamic stability of the system.
systems. By providing rapid adjustments to system impedance and
power flow, these devices mitigate oscillatory behavior, thus
As transmission technology continues to evolve, improving the reliability and robustness of the grid.
FACTS will play a crucial role in the development of smart
grids and the transition towards more sustainable, reliable, Supporting Renewable Energy Integration:
and efficient power networks worldwide[7]. The shift towards renewable energy sources such as
wind and solar has introduced variability and unpredictability
in power generation. FACTS devices are pivotal in smoothing
out these fluctuations, providing voltage and reactive power
support to accommodate renewable energy’s intermittent
nature. This ensures that renewable sources can be integrated Cyber-Physical Security Enhancements:
into the grid without compromising system stability or As FACTS become more interconnected within the
performance. digital landscape of smart grids, the importance of
cybersecurity grows. Future developments will focus on
Increased Transmission Capacity and Efficiency: enhancing the cyber-physical security of FACTS devices to
FACTS technologies enhance the operational capacity protect against potential cyber threats, ensuring the safe and
of existing transmission lines by managing line impedance reliable operation of power transmission networks.
and optimizing the power transfer. This reduces the need for
building new transmission infrastructure, which is costly and High-Power Semiconductor Technologies:
time-consuming. FACTS can therefore increase the power Advances in power electronics, particularly in high-
handling capability of existing lines, making the grid more power semiconductor materials like silicon carbide (SiC) and
efficient and capable of meeting growing demand. gallium nitride (GaN), will significantly enhance the
performance, efficiency, and compactness of FACTS devices.
Flexible and Modular Solutions: These materials allow for higher switching frequencies,
FACTS devices offer modular and scalable solutions reduced losses, and greater thermal stability, which will lead
that can be tailored to specific system needs. This flexibility to more efficient and robust FACTS solutions.
allows power operators to address localized problems within
the grid without extensive overhauls, adapting to changes in Decentralization and Distributed FACTS:
demand patterns, generation mix, and grid configuration as With the increasing decentralization of energy
required. generation, the future will see more deployment of distributed
FACTS (D-FACTS) devices. These smaller, modular devices
These changes highlight the transformative impact of can be deployed closer to distributed energy resources
FACTS on power system parameters, making them (DERs) and along various points of the transmission network,
indispensable tools in managing modern electrical grids. By providing localized support and improving overall grid
offering enhanced control, stability, and efficiency, FACTS flexibility.
are critical in addressing the evolving challenges of today’s
power systems, paving the way for a more resilient and Enhanced Voltage and Power Flow Management:
adaptive energy future[9]. Future FACTS devices will offer improved capabilities
for dynamic voltage control and power flow management,
IV. FUTURE TRENDS IN FACTS addressing more complex power scenarios, including the
(FLEXIBLE AC TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS) integration of offshore wind farms, large-scale solar plants,
and multi-terminal HVDC systems. Advanced control
The future of Flexible AC Transmission Systems algorithms will further optimize these devices for better
(FACTS) is closely linked to the evolving needs of modern performance under fluctuating conditions.
power grids, which are becoming more complex, dynamic,
and increasingly reliant on renewable energy sources[10]. As Cost Reduction and Increased Accessibility:
transmission technology advances, several key trends are Ongoing technological advancements and economies of
expected to shape the development and deployment of scale are expected to reduce the cost of FACTS devices,
FACTS: making them more accessible for wider deployment. As these
technologies become more cost-effective, their adoption will
Integration with Smart Grids and Digital Technologies: accelerate, particularly in emerging markets where grid
The future of FACTS will be deeply intertwined with infrastructure upgrades are urgently needed.
the evolution of smart grids. Advanced FACTS devices will
increasingly integrate with digital technologies such as These future trends position FACTS as a cornerstone
Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and technology in the next-generation power grids, offering
machine learning (ML). These technologies will enable real- enhanced capabilities to meet the demands of a rapidly
time monitoring, predictive analytics, and autonomous evolving energy landscape characterized by higher efficiency,
control of power flow, enhancing the responsiveness and greater resilience, and increased integration of renewable
adaptability of FACTS devices to changing grid conditions. energy[11].
challenges in the country’s power grid. Below are the key Economic Benefits and Cost Efficiency:
factors that highlight the potential and future role of FACTS The implementation of FACTS devices can lead to
devices in India[12]: significant economic benefits by postponing or eliminating
the need for expensive grid expansion projects. By optimizing
Enhanced Grid Stability and Reliability: the performance of existing transmission infrastructure,
India’s power grid faces frequent stability issues due to FACTS reduce the capital expenditure required for new lines
high load variability, fluctuating renewable energy and substations, offering a cost-effective solution for meeting
generation, and aging infrastructure. FACTS devices such as India’s growing power demands.
Static VAR Compensators (SVC) and STATCOMs can
significantly improve voltage stability, enhance reactive Regulatory and Policy Support:
power compensation, and provide dynamic support to The Indian government’s focus on grid modernization,
maintain grid reliability. These technologies are crucial in renewable integration, and energy efficiency provides strong
regions with high demand volatility, such as industrial hubs regulatory support for the deployment of FACTS
and urban centers. technologies. Initiatives such as the Green Energy Corridor
and the National Smart Grid Mission highlight the
Facilitating Renewable Energy Integration: importance of advanced transmission solutions, creating a
India has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, favorable policy environment for FACTS investments.
aiming to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by
2030. However, integrating large-scale wind and solar power Opportunities for Technological Innovation and Local
into the grid poses challenges related to variability and Manufacturing:
intermittency. FACTS devices can help manage these issues India’s emphasis on self-reliance and technological
by providing fast-acting reactive power support, stabilizing innovation presents opportunities for local manufacturing of
voltage levels, and facilitating smooth power flow, thereby FACTS devices. Developing domestic capabilities in
enhancing the integration of renewables into the national grid. designing and producing these advanced technologies can
reduce costs, create jobs, and support the country’s broader
Mitigating Transmission Congestion: industrial growth agenda.
India’s power grid often suffers from transmission
bottlenecks, especially in regions with high generation VI. CLASSIFICATIONS OF FACTS
capacity but limited transmission infrastructure. FACTS
technologies like Unified Power Flow Controllers (UPFC) FACTS devices are categorized based on their
and Thyristor-Controlled Series Capacitors (TCSC) can functionality, connection to the power system, and the type of
optimize power flow, reduce line congestion, and improve the power electronic controllers they use. The classification helps
overall transfer capacity of existing transmission corridors. in understanding their role in improving grid stability, power
This is crucial for efficiently delivering power from flow control, and reactive power management. The
renewable-rich states to demand centers. classification of FACTS devices provides a clear
understanding of their roles in modern power systems. Shunt
Improving Power Quality and Reducing Losses: devices manage reactive power and voltage stability, series
Power quality issues such as voltage sags, flickers, and devices optimize power flow and control line impedance, and
harmonics are prevalent in India, affecting industrial combined devices offer comprehensive management of
productivity and overall system efficiency. FACTS devices multiple power system parameters[13]. The choice of FACTS
can address these problems by providing precise control over device depends on the specific needs of the grid, such as
voltage and power flow, enhancing power quality, and enhancing stability, managing power flow, or integrating
minimizing transmission losses. This improvement is vital for renewable energy sources Here are the main classifications of
industries that rely on high-quality, stable power supply for FACTS:
their operations.
A. Classification by Connection Type
Supporting Smart Grid Development:
India is actively working towards modernizing its power Shunt Devices:
grid with smart technologies to enhance its operational These devices are connected in parallel with the power
efficiency and reliability. FACTS devices are integral to this system. They primarily provide reactive power compensation
development, offering advanced control and automation to support voltage control and stabilize the grid[14].
capabilities that align with smart grid objectives. Their ability
to interact with real-time data and intelligent control systems Examples:
makes them essential components of India’s future smart grid
infrastructure. Static VAR Compensator (SVC):
Uses thyristor-controlled reactors and capacitors to
manage reactive power dynamically.
Series Devices:
These are connected in series with the transmission line. They control the line impedance and manage power flow along the
transmission path, enhancing the line’s power transfer capability.
Examples:
Reactive Power Compensation: Looking to the future, the role of FACTS in power
Devices that primarily provide reactive power support systems is set to expand even further. The increasing
to maintain voltage levels and improve power quality. complexity of modern grids, driven by the integration of
distributed generation, electric vehicles, and microgrids, will
Examples: SVC, STATCOM demand more advanced and adaptive solutions. Future
developments in FACTS technology will likely focus on
Power Flow Control: incorporating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and
Devices focused on managing and optimizing the flow advanced control algorithms, allowing these devices to
of power through transmission lines to reduce congestion and respond more quickly and accurately to grid disturbances.
increase transfer capacity. Moreover, integrating FACTS with energy storage systems
could revolutionize their functionality, providing both
Examples: TCSC, SSSC, UPFC reactive power support and active power management
capabilities.
Stability Enhancement:
Devices that help stabilize the grid by damping power The continued evolution of FACTS will be vital in the
oscillations and enhancing dynamic stability during transition towards smart grids, enhancing the resilience,
disturbances. efficiency, and flexibility of power networks. As the demand
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2024. [Online]. Available: NAMBURI NIREEKSHANA graduated from JNTU
https://www.ijisrt.com/assets/upload/files/IJISRT24J Hyderabad with 75% aggregate and received Master of
AN1868.pdf Technology from JNTU Hyderabad with 76%, research
scholar in Annamalai University .He is working as assistant
professor in Methodist college of engineering & technology.
B. Reetha Jaleja Is pursuing B.E in the Dept of Electrical Cherala Mukta Tejaswi Is pursuing B.E in the Dept of
and Electronic Engineering in Methodist College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering in Methodist College
Engineering & Technology, Hyderabad. She completed of Engineering & Technology, Hyderabad. She completed
intermediate in Srichaitanya Jr.College and completed school diploma in TRR College of Technology and completed school
in Bhashyam High School, Malkajgiri, Secundrabad. in Sri Chaitanya School, Hyderabad