What is it about?
The complexity of voltage collapse problem has increased with increasing interconnections between independent power systems. When a bulk power transmission network (generation and transmission system) is operated close to the voltage stability limit, it becomes difficult to control the reactive power demand for that system. As a result, the system voltage stability is affected, which if undetected may lead to voltage collapse. Voltage collapse is generally caused by either of the two types of system disturbances: load variations and contingencies. In respect to voltage collapse phenomenon, information based on loading capability is highly important for the secure operation of the power system. In this paper, the most probable voltage collapse points of the Bangladesh Power System Network (BPSN) have been predicted using continuation power flow method. Voltage stability of BPSN is improved by placing static VAR compensator (SVC). A load flow analysis based technique is used to determine the amount of reactive power support needed. Results show good improvements.
Featured Image
Photo by Iann kim on Unsplash
Why is it important?
This work is important because voltage instability and collapse pose a serious operational risk for rapidly expanding and highly stressed power systems such as the Bangladesh Power System Network (BPSN). With increasing interconnections, rising load demand, and limited reactive power reserves, the BPSN is frequently operated close to its voltage stability margin, making it vulnerable to sudden disturbances caused by load growth or network contingencies. Undetected proximity to voltage collapse can lead to widespread blackouts with significant economic and social consequences. Therefore, accurately identifying voltage collapse points and strengthening voltage stability is critical for ensuring secure and reliable power system operation. What is unique and timely about this work is the application of the continuation power flow (CPF) method to systematically predict the most probable voltage collapse points of the BPSN under stressed operating conditions. Unlike conventional load flow analysis, CPF provides precise information about system loading limits and stability margins, which is essential for proactive system planning. Furthermore, this study integrates a load-flow-based reactive power compensation strategy to optimally place a static VAR compensator (SVC), demonstrating practical and implementable solutions rather than purely theoretical analysis. The results clearly show improved voltage profiles and enhanced stability margins, offering valuable guidance for planners and operators. By combining accurate voltage stability assessment with effective reactive power support, this work contributes directly to improving the operational resilience of the Bangladesh power grid. The methodology and findings can also be extended to other developing power systems facing similar challenges, thereby increasing the broader relevance and readership of the study.
Perspectives
Working on this study was particularly meaningful to me because voltage stability is not just a theoretical concern for the Bangladesh power grid—it is a real and recurring operational challenge with direct societal impact. Having observed how rapid load growth, limited reactive power resources, and increasing network complexity stress the system, this work felt both timely and necessary. Applying the continuation power flow method allowed me to explore voltage collapse behavior in a way that goes beyond traditional load flow analysis and offers practical insights for system planners and operators. I was especially motivated by the opportunity to connect rigorous analytical methods with implementable solutions. Investigating the placement and sizing of static VAR compensators demonstrated how relatively localized reactive power support can significantly enhance overall system stability. This reinforced my belief that careful modeling and planning can play a crucial role in preventing large-scale outages. I hope this article encourages greater attention to voltage stability assessment in developing and rapidly evolving power systems. More broadly, I hope it shows that problems often viewed as highly technical or abstract—such as voltage collapse—are closely tied to everyday reliability and quality of life, and that targeted engineering solutions can make a meaningful difference.
Md Khurram Monir Rabby
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Bifurcation analysis to identify voltage collapse in bangladesh power system, May 2013, Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers (IEEE),
DOI: 10.1109/iciev.2013.6572615.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
