Estimation of Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICS) in the Namibian transmission network

Includes bibliographical references.Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICs) have become a matter of concern not only to networks located in high magnetic latitude regions but also in networks located in mid-latitude regions. GICs pose a threat of transmission equipment damage which could lead to short power interruptions and potentially long term blackouts. Improved modelling techniques are essential in predicting the GICs flowing in the network in order to enable power utilities to reduce the risk of damage to equipment and improve the reliability of their power supply. This dissertation, entitled ESTIMATION OF GEOMAGNETICALLY INDUCED CURRENTS (GICS) IN THE NAMIBIAN TRANSMISSION NETWORK, aims at improving GIC estimation by installing measurement equipment in order to compare measured GIC results with modelled results. The purpose of which is to validate the calculation technique. The Nodal Admittance technique was proposed for the study and was first validated using published data obtained using the a&b parameter method. For the measurement techniques, two methods were found namely direct measurements in the transformer neutral conductor and indirect measurements in the transmission lines. In this dissertation, the former was implemented due to its simplicity in usage