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Abstract
Geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) are a consequence of space weather activity that can affect power grid operation and stability worldwide. GICs manifest as quasi-direct currents flowing between the power grids and the conductive earth, and are often measured with a Hall sensor placed at the transformer neutral. Globally, the number of power grid substations with GIC measurements has grown quickly in recent years, but Austria remains one of the few countries with a dataset of long-term GIC observations. GIC measurements in substations in the Austrian power grid have been carried out since 2016, with a maximum of seven concurrent substation measurements, providing a unique opportunity for GIC measurement analysis.
In this study, we present an analysis of the last six years of GIC measurements in Austria. Seven custom-built stand-alone GIC measurement systems have been installed in the 220 and 380 kV transmission levels, measuring currents up to 25 A. We identify recurrent geomagnetic activity in the measurements, and also find man-made sources of low frequency currents using frequency analysis. We focus on two geomagnetic storms from September 2017 and May 2021 to discuss the effects of GICs on a mid-latitude power transmission grid. In conclusion, we find that there is a daily level of noise in the data and that, even during the largest events when 14 A were measured, transformer heating remains unlikely.
In this study, we present an analysis of the last six years of GIC measurements in Austria. Seven custom-built stand-alone GIC measurement systems have been installed in the 220 and 380 kV transmission levels, measuring currents up to 25 A. We identify recurrent geomagnetic activity in the measurements, and also find man-made sources of low frequency currents using frequency analysis. We focus on two geomagnetic storms from September 2017 and May 2021 to discuss the effects of GICs on a mid-latitude power transmission grid. In conclusion, we find that there is a daily level of noise in the data and that, even during the largest events when 14 A were measured, transformer heating remains unlikely.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | EGU General Assembly 2023 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 22 Feb 2023 |
Event | European Geosciences Union General Assembly 2023: EGU 2023 - Wien, Austria Duration: 23 Apr 2023 → 28 Apr 2023 |
Conference
Conference | European Geosciences Union General Assembly 2023 |
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Abbreviated title | EGU23 |
Country/Territory | Austria |
City | Wien |
Period | 23/04/23 → 28/04/23 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Energy
- General Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Fields of Expertise
- Sustainable Systems
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Dive into the research topics of 'Analysis of six years of GIC measurements in the Austrian power grid'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Projects
- 1 Active
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Giant II - GIC Impact on Assets and Network Infrastructure
Renner, H., Schachinger, P. & Fröhlich, A.
1/09/22 → 31/08/26
Project: Research project
Prizes
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OVE-Energietechnik | Kategorie Dissertation
Albert, Dennis (Recipient), 18 Oct 2023
Prize: Prizes / Medals / Awards