Modeling of Traction Power Supply Systems Equipped with Renewable Energy Sources

The study presents the results of research aimed at developing digital models for determining the operating parameters of railway power supply systems equipped with distributed generation plants based on renewable energy sources (RESs). RESs can be used in railway transport to increase the reliability of power supply to facilities located in areas with insufficiently developed power grids. This primarily applies to consumers, for whom a power failure can lead to significant damage, accidents, and a threat to human life. RES can serve as independent power sources for special-group consumers and can increase energy conversion efficiency. Furthermore, large-scale implementation of renewable energy sources can significantly reduce energy supply costs and improve power quality. The study employs phase-coordinate modeling, which is characterized by the following features: a systems approach, which implies determining operating conditions while considering the properties and characteristics of complex traction and supply networks; versatility, which enables modeling of power supply systems of various structures and designs; and comprehensiveness, which involves calculating normal, emergency, and special operating parameters—crucial for scenarios such as ice melting on catenary wires. The modeling results obtained using the Fazonord AC-DC software (ver. 5.3.5.2) show that RES-based distributed generation plants provide a variety of beneficial effects: reduction in electricity consumption from power system networks; decrease in voltage unbalance and harmonic distortion on the busbars of regional windings of traction substations; and stabilization of voltage levels on current collectors of electric locomotives.