Static Var Generator

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Power Factor Correction in the Era of Smart Grid Technology

In today’s era of Smart Grid Technology and rapid Technology Upgradation, power systems demand more responsive and Dynamic Power Solutions. Traditional Power Factor Correction methods like capacitor banks often fall short when dealing with fluctuating and non-linear loads. To address this, the Static Var Generator has emerged as a revolutionary solution.

A Static Var Generator is an advanced device used for Reactive Power Compensation, Designed to react instantaneously to changes in load conditions. Much like an Active Harmonic Filter, an SVG monitors the network’s current and voltage phase relationship. When it detects a lagging current, it injects a leading current (180° out of phase) of equal magnitude, achieving dynamic Power Factor Correction and system stability. This makes the SVG a key enabler of modern Smart Grid Technology.

Advantages of SVG over Conventional Capacitor Bank

SVG vs Conventional Capacitor Bank PDF

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Working of Static Var Generator (SVG)

The internal components of an SVG work in harmony, just like the organs of a human body:

External CT (Current Transformer) – Functions as the eyes, detecting the load current.
DSP (Digital Signal Processor) – Acts as the brain, calculating the reactive power of the load.
IGBT Module – The heart of the system, generating inductive or capacitive current for Reactive Power Compensation
These intelligent electronics allow the Static Var Generator (SVG) to offer precise and immediate reactive support. Unlike capacitor banks, SVGs can individually correct each phase (especially in 4-wire systems), and respond in real-time – typically within 15 milliseconds – making them ideal for modern Dynamic Power Solutions.

When the load power factor is lagging (as in the case of motors or transformers), the load is inductive and the current lags behind the voltage — in this situation, the SVG injects capacitive reactive power to cancel out the lagging reactive current and improve the power factor. On the other hand, if the power factor is leading (such as with lightly loaded cables), the load is capacitive and the current leads the voltage — in this case, the SVG absorbs capacitive reactive power or injects lagging current to balance the excess leading reactive power and bring the power factor back toward unity

Features and Benefits of Static Var Generator (SVG)

Ultrafast Response: Offers full Reactive Power Compensation in just 15ms, ensuring system stability during sudden load changes
Highly Stable Operation: Performance remains unaffected by high THDi or changes in system impedance
Excellent Performance: Maintains a Power Factor of up to 0.99, improving overall energy efficiency
Compact Design: With DSP-based power electronics, the SVG occupies 1/2 to 2/3 the space traditional systems with similar capacity
Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep—once every 12 months—unlike capacitor banks that need quarterly checks and replacements due to contactor wear and capacitor aging
Harmonic Resilience: The Static Var Generator (SVG) is immune to harmonic currents, ensuring stable operation even in highly distorted systems

According to the mounting type,SVG can be divided into Rack Mounted SVG and Wall Mounted SVG

Applications of SVG (Static Var Generator)

Industrial plants with frequent load variation
IT and data centres requiring clean, balanced power
Renewable energy systems (solar/wind) with fluctuating outputs
Infrastructure aligned with Smart Grid Technology By offering fast, efficient, and long-lasting Reactive Power Compensation, the SVG is setting new standards in Power Factor Correction and Dynamic Power Solutions.