In the evolving landscape of modern power systems, Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) are playing a crucial role in improving the controllability, stability, and efficiency of electric power transmission. FACTS technologies enable grid operators and engineers to manage power flow more effectively, increase transmission capacity, and enhance system reliability without the need for extensive infrastructure upgrades. As global demand for electricity continues to rise, and renewable energy sources become more prevalent, the strategic deployment of FACTS devices has become essential in maintaining resilient and smart grid networks.

This 10-day hands-on training course is designed to equip electrical engineers, power system operators, and technical consultants with a deep understanding of FACTS principles, applications, and control strategies. Through comprehensive modules, practical case studies, and simulation exercises, participants will gain insights into the planning, design, and implementation of FACTS devices such as SVC, STATCOM, TCSC, and UPFC. This course is ideal for professionals involved in power transmission and distribution, renewable energy integration, and utility grid management who seek to future-proof their technical expertise in advanced power systems.

Duration
10 Days

Target Audience

• Power system engineers and consultants
• Electrical engineers involved in transmission and distribution networks
• Utility company technical and operational staff
• Energy regulators and policy advisors
• Grid control and SCADA system operators
• Renewable energy integration engineers
• Academicians and researchers in electrical power systems
• Professionals in substation design and control
• Engineers involved in smart grid and modernization projects
• Energy project developers and system planners

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals and need for FACTS in modern power systems
• Explore the classification and functionality of various FACTS devices
• Analyze the role of FACTS in voltage regulation, power flow, and system stability
• Apply modeling and simulation techniques for FACTS devices
• Identify the design and configuration requirements for FACTS deployment
• Interpret the interaction of FACTS with renewable energy and smart grids
• Evaluate economic and technical considerations in FACTS implementation
• Gain familiarity with the latest trends and innovations in FACTS technologies
• Learn maintenance and protection strategies for FACTS-equipped systems
• Develop actionable strategies for integrating FACTS in transmission planning

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS)

• Definition, objectives, and benefits of FACTS
• Limitations of conventional transmission systems
• Evolution of FACTS in power systems
• Overview of reactive power control and compensation
• Types and classifications of FACTS controllers

Module 2: Power System Basics and the Role of FACTS

• Fundamentals of power flow in AC systems
• Impacts of load variation and system dynamics
• Power quality and voltage stability concerns
• Role of reactive power in transmission networks
• How FACTS devices improve performance metrics

Module 3: Shunt Compensation and Static VAR Compensator (SVC)

• Principles of shunt compensation
• Working of thyristor-controlled reactors (TCR)
• Fixed capacitor-thyristor controlled reactor (FC-TCR) systems
• SVC modeling and control characteristics
• Application areas and performance improvement

Module 4: Series Compensation and Thyristor-Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC)

• Series compensation fundamentals
• TCSC operation and dynamic behavior
• Stability improvement through series devices
• Protection and control strategies
• Case studies on TCSC applications

Module 5: Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM)

• Differences between STATCOM and SVC
• STATCOM architecture and converters
• Voltage regulation and dynamic reactive power control
• Advantages in weak grid scenarios
• Modeling and simulation techniques

Module 6: Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC)

• Overview of UPFC and multifunction control
• Series and shunt converter coordination
• Voltage magnitude, phase angle, and impedance control
• Power flow control in meshed networks
• System integration and use cases

Module 7: Modeling and Simulation of FACTS Devices

• Overview of simulation platforms and tools
• Dynamic and transient analysis of FACTS
• Integration with power system simulation software
• FACTS device parameter tuning
• Hands-on simulation exercises

Module 8: Control Strategies and Coordination of FACTS

• Control loops and feedback mechanisms
• Decentralized vs centralized control
• Interaction with SCADA/EMS systems
• Coordination of multiple FACTS devices
• Voltage stability and frequency regulation

Module 9: Protection and Maintenance of FACTS Equipment

• Protective relaying schemes for FACTS
• Condition monitoring and diagnostics
• Thermal management and cooling systems
• Maintenance scheduling and troubleshooting
• Safety standards and operational guidelines

Module 10: FACTS and Renewable Energy Integration

• Impact of intermittent renewables on grid stability
• Enhancing grid code compliance with FACTS
• FACTS in wind and solar farm integration
• Mitigation of voltage and frequency fluctuations
• Real-world examples and pilot projects

Module 11: FACTS in Smart Grid Development

• Role of FACTS in intelligent grid systems
• Integration with IoT and digital control
• Enhancing demand-side management and automation
• FACTS for load balancing and congestion management
• Enabling flexible and decentralized energy flow

Module 12: Economic Evaluation of FACTS Solutions

• Cost-benefit analysis of FACTS implementation
• Investment decisions and regulatory frameworks
• Operational savings and loss reduction
• Impact on transmission capacity deferral
• Financial modeling and project feasibility

Module 13: Case Studies and International Practices

• Utility deployments of SVCs and STATCOMs
• Benchmarking with regional power systems
• Lessons learned from failure scenarios
• Hybrid solutions combining multiple FACTS devices
• Emerging markets and technology trends

Module 14: Design and Specification of FACTS Equipment

• Key technical parameters and standards
• Vendor selection and equipment procurement
• Customization for grid-specific needs
• Compliance with IEC and IEEE standards
• Testing, commissioning, and quality control

Module 15: Future Trends and Innovations in FACTS

• Development of modular multilevel converters
• Integration with HVDC and hybrid systems
• Role of AI and machine learning in control systems
• Research directions and academic perspectives
• Policy and market drivers shaping FACTS adoption

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.