Elements of Tuning a Power System Stabilizer for NERC Compliance

Regional requirements for NERC performance compliance varies throughout the United States. Where applicable, the generator and excitation system are required go through a series of tests for model validation. These tests can be quite time consuming and expensive. Not all paper mills are required to comply, but some may be directed to do so by the utility because of their machine's size, its relative interconnection to the system, and how and where the generator output is directed. [1] One feature for modern excitation systems is a Power System Stabilizer (PSS). The PSS is used on machines 25 MVA or larger where power system stability issues develop on voltage-weak systems and where NERC compliance applies. Power system stability is generally an issue in the western United States depending upon the power plant's location. The PSS augments the control of the excitation system to dampen MW oscillations after a system disturbance. This paper discusses the testing expectations for modeling NERC-compliant plants and the strategies for tuning a PSS. [2]