Identification of System Split Topologies in Transmission Grids

This paper presents a holistic approach for systematic identification of critical system split topologies in transmission grids. After the determination of characteristic grid utilization cases, a generalized line outage distribution factor (GLODF) based approach is used to recognize relevant initial (n-2) contingencies, thus drastically reducing the area of investigation. The detailed system split topologies are then identified by means of time domain simulation. The application of the method on an exemplary test grid enables the identification of reoccurring system split topologies, thus allowing a design of suitable stabilizing measures. Crucial transmission lines often being part of initial (n-2) contingencies as well as grid regions remaining interconnected in system split scenarios are recognized. By means of an exemplary time domain simulation, it is shown how the findings can be integrated within countermeasure design, for instance by modification of protection settings.