Overview of the problems related to the impact of geomagnetic induced current

Abstract

Geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) can cause a range of adverse consequences related to the normal functioning of a power system, e.g. the saturation of power transformers, unusual flows of active and reactive power, voltage fluctuations, the appearance of the third harmonic, a shift of power frequency and erroneous operation of the protection relay. In the worst case, the above mentioned malfunctions may result in thermal destruction of the power transformers and heavy damage of parts or even the entire national power system. The same effect is particularly pronounced in high-voltage power facilities, whose neutral is effectively grounded, as is the case with substations rated voltage of 110 kV (owned by PE EPS), or 220 kV and 400 kV (owned by Joint Stock Company EMS). This paper gives a short overview of the problems related to the presence of GIC and possible preventive actions aimed at countering the potential adverse consequences caused by GIC.

Keywords

• geomagnetically induced currents
• power system