SiC-Based Solid-State Fault Current Control System for Vulnerability Reduction of Power Distribution Networks

This project will develop high-voltage, high-performance Solid-State Fault Current Controller (SSFCC) technology, needed to minimize recovery time and vulnerability of the electricity network in the event of a large-scale natural disaster. The SSFCC technology, which utilizes Silicon Carbide (SiC) gate-turn-off thyristors (GTOs), will be able to control power delivery to all types of faults very rapidly, thereby minimizing power quality issues. Moreover, when combined with existing network equipment, the technology will enable rapid reconfiguration of the power network. Lastly, the proposed solution offers modularity, flexibility, and low operation/maintenance, allowing for widespread adoption and deployment. Phase I will focus on the demonstration of a Si-based, single-phase 4160V-class SSFCC hardware prototype. Phase II will extend the power rating of the SSFCC and develop a SiC-based SSFCC prototype. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Power interruption and quality issues cause economic losses to the nation, conservatively estimated to be over 100 billion dollars/year. The SSFCC technology should minimize fault-related power quality issues (i.e., voltage sags, oscillations, harmonics, etc.), improve network reliability (i.e., minimization of affected area), and allow for power re-routing in the event of a long-term or permanent fault