This project aims to develop a methodology and Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) system to assess the impact of Power Electronic Devices (PEDs) and Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICs) on Current Transformers (CTs) and protection and control (P&C) performance in power systems. The focus is on addressing the emerging issue of DC components from the GICs and integration of Inverter-Based Renewables (IBRs) and HVDC and FACTS (Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System) devices. Electromagnetic Transient (EMT) models will be created for various PEDs, and industrial protection relays will be connected to the RTDS to form a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test platform. The project will evaluate the risks associated with DC components, informing technical specifications and grid code changes to facilitate the energy transition and enhance the integration of renewable energy into the power grid. 

Benefits

This innovation project will provide a fundamental understanding of the impacts of DC components introduced by PEDs and GICs on future networks. By developing a methodology to assess these impacts on CTs saturation and protection performance, the project will help identify potential risks in the performance of the CT and the existing P&C systems. This assessment will determine tolerable levels of DC components for these systems, ensuring their reliability as we integrate more renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the findings will inform the development of Technical Specifications and necessary changes to the Grid Code, regulating DC components within AC systems where applicable.