Performance of Grid Forming Compared to Grid Following STATCOM in Weak Power Systems

With the increase in high penetration of inverter-based generation, the power system's features are evolving swiftly, leading to various challenges. Among numerous issues, this paper addresses specific grid challenges such as dynamic reactive power support during weak grid situations. To provide such grid support service during weak grid situations, a new type of STATCOM control has emerged known as grid forming. This control has a unique capability of providing instantaneous reactive power support against the change in voltage magnitude irrespective of the grid strength. This paper aims to compare the behavior of grid-forming and grid-following STATCOMs in real network model under extreme grid conditions, providing insights to determine the most suitable STATCOM type for specific grid situations, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of power system stability and reliability.