Potential benefits of implementing load management to improve power system security

This paper investigates the potential benefits provided by demand-side management programs applied in power system congested areas to improve voltage security. Congested areas are indicated by expanded modal analysis technique from a new perspective of active power variations. The study simulates the relocation of the demand from congested areas during peak periods in response to price signals. A contingency analysis is also presented. All simulations are tested in a real-life Brazilian system. The results show that this can be an efficient strategy to improve system security and prevent possible blackouts, making more efficient usage of system resources. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.