Maximizing the reactive capability of AEP generating stations

Studies of the low voltage conditions which occurred in the northwestern part of the AEP system during recent peak summer load periods indicated that a major contributing factor was the inability of many AEP generating units to provide the anticipated reactive power output necessary to maintain adequate system voltage levels. Recognizing that the experienced reactive power performance was attributable to unknown physical (equipment) limits and/or overly conservative unit operating practices, a multi-disciplinary task force was formed to: determine the practical reactive capability of each unit, identify the equipment that limits that output, develop methods to improve unit reactive capability, and conduct training seminars on reactive power generation and voltage coordination for unit operators. These activities have significantly increased the available reactive capability of many AEP units. This paper describes the efforts to date and quantifies the improvement of the reactive capability of AEP generating units.