Volt/Var Control

Actually, the use of the volt/var control (VVC) is considered one of the most important and desired functions in the context of distribution systems modernization, in view of the rise of communication technologies and new controllable equipment. In this sense, some commercial solutions have been proposed in the last years for the VVC implementation and optimization in the distribution networks. However, studies and propositions of adequate techniques are still necessary, as most of these solutions have not yet considered the possibility to control the voltage levels by frequency inverters, excluding the participation of distributed generation and other electronic equipment with potential benefits of VVC. This chapter presents a review of the evolution of VVC and its challenges, the main controllable equipment as well as the VVC implementation structures. An example of a case is presented to demonstrate the performance of equipment in the adjustment of voltage levels.