As the power grid continues to expand to incorporate more renewable energy sources, managing Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) and Rate of Rise of Recovery Voltage (RRRV) has become increasingly critical.

What is Transient Recovery Voltage?

Transient Recovery Voltage is the voltage that appears across a circuit breaker immediately after it interrupts a fault current, while Rise of Recovery Rate Voltage measures the rate at which this voltage rises. In grids with a high penetration of Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs), these converters can significantly alter TRV and RRRV characteristics, which could lead to re-strikes or circuit breaker failures if not properly managed. Detailed analysis is essential to ensure reliable circuit breaker operation under all conditions.

Key Challenges:

• Managing TRV and RRRV is critical as the grid accommodates more renewables.
• IBRs can alter the characteristics of TRV and RRRV.
• Failure to manage these could result in re-strikes or circuit breaker failures.

How are Transient Recovery Voltage Studies Conducted?

TRV and RRRV studies are conducted using PSCAD EMT simulations. These detailed studies allow us to model the impact of various renewable integrations and grid conditions, providing actionable insights that optimise circuit breaker performance and ensure overall system stability.

At Blake Clough Consulting, we have been developing new workflows for PSCAD through Python scripting and the PSCAD Automation Library to automate the running of models, processing of output data, and plotting of simulation results. This is enabling us to deliver detailed PSCAD studies, such as TRV and RRV, faster and better than ever.