Economic Valuation and Optimal Deployment of Static Synchronous Series Compensators for U.S. Power System Expansion
A new study finds smart grid devices could cut expansion costs by 20%...
A new study develops a capacity expansion model for the contiguous U.S. power system toward 2050 incorporating Static Synchronous Series Compensators (SSSCs). Cost-optimal system deployment leverages widespread SSSCs on small-to-medium capacity lines and reduces the number of corridors needing reinforcement. Overall, SSSCs reduce annualized system costs by $1.9 billion or decrease transmission expansion requirements by 20%. The most advantageous deployments, with benefit-cost ratios of 59, are concentrated in the Midwest, enabling central U.S. wind power delivery to eastern load centers.
- SSSC deployment reduces annual U.S. power system costs by $1.9 billion and transmission expansion needs by 20%
- Best benefit-cost ratios of 59 occur in the Midwest, enabling wind power delivery to eastern demand centers
- Value proposition is robust under cost sensitivities, HVDC competition, and increases with higher demand and decarbonization targets
Why It Matters
Grid planners now have a data-driven blueprint to slash expansion costs and accelerate renewable integration using proven SSSC tech.