Convertible static compensator project - Hardware overview

The CSC, a power-electronics control device based on voltage source inverter technology, is part of a transmission system reinforcement project employing a combination of FACTS and conventional technologies. The CSC is being installed at NYPA's Marcy 345-kV substation near Utica, New York. In addition, three 135 MVAR shunt capacitor banks will be installed at 345 kV substations across New York State. When fully implemented, this will provide a long-term solution to the power transfer limitations in Central New York by raising the limit of upstate-to-downstate power transfers by 240 megawatts, improving voltage and power-flow control, and maximizing the use of existing transmission assets. Enhancements to the reliability and resiliency of the network will be achieved at a critical time of electric power industry deregulation. NYPA is working together with EPRI, Siemens and a group of 21 utilities on the CSC development and implementation.