Nuclear Generating Stations and Transmission Grid Reliability

Nuclear generating stations have historically been susceptible to transmission system voltage excursions. When nuclear generating stations trip because of voltage excursions, the resulting loss in real and reactive power support can exacerbate transmission events. New standards are being developed which should help improve nuclear plant and transmission system reliability. This paper provides a brief historical perspective. Nuclear plants do not provide automatic generation control in response to frequency decay and are also limited in providing voltage support. As 28 new nuclear plants are being considered for connection to an already highly stressed transmission grid, consideration must be given to nuclear plant design features that will enhance transmission system reliability.