ABB has also introduced significant enhancements to its power simulation models for UNITROL 1000 AVRs that enable superior simulation accuracy and usability, enabling companies worldwide to optimize system performance and compliance.
Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs) play a vital role in managing the voltage output of a synchronous generator. It ensures a fast and accurate response to load variations, keeping voltage levels within the required range.
Beyond steady-state control, AVRs like UNITROL 1000 are also critical in responding to grid instability and electrical faults, helping to maintain system stability and protect both the generator and the grid whenever the grid is challenged by increasing complexity and load variation. UNITROL 1000 excitation is engineered to deliver precise and dynamic voltage control with high reliability, making it essential for stable, efficient and resilient power generation.
Simplifying grid code compliance through certified components
The component certification for VDE-AR-N 4110 and 4120 standards guarantees that power generation units and plants meet grid connection regulations, while aligning with European Union Network Codes (NC RfG 2016). These standards ensure seamless integration into both the national and EU-wide interconnected power grid, supporting stability, efficiency and compliance with international energy regulations.
“The ABB UNITROL 1000 series was the first automatic voltage regulator to achieve full compliance with the German grid code in 2019,” comments Werner Pretorius, Global Product Manager for UNITROL 1000 at ABB’s Energy Industries division. “This certification awarded by TÜV NORD certification body is subject to regular renewal and underscores ABB’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that the UNITROL 1000 series remains ahead of evolving market and regulatory requirements. We are excited to achieve the renewal of the certification and to introduce at the same time new highly accurate simulation models. Our commitment to innovation and excellence continues to drive us forward, ensuring our customers receive the best possible solutions for their power systems.”
Strengthening power grid stability and resilience with accurate simulation models
The demand for accurate and validated power system simulation models has grown significantly – particularly in regions with high renewable energy penetration such as Europe and Australia. Unreliable models can undermine power system planning, lead to inefficient operations and increase the risk of grid instability and large-scale outages.
“ABB’s newly released simulation models are designed to support plant owners, Transmission System Operators (TSOs), certifiers, and power system consultants with reliable digital representations (digital twins) of the UNITROL 1000 to help predict system behavior across a range of scenarios, improving both operational planning and decision-making,” adds Filipa Augusto Marques, Regional Sales Manager, Power Reliability solutions at ABB’s Energy Industries division. “Each model has been rigorously benchmarked against the certified DIgSILENT PowerFactory model to ensure exceptional fidelity and consistency and are crucial to key applications such as network connection studies, performance assessments, and regulatory compliance.”
LVRT Response Graph: The overlays of Ug (generator voltage), P (active power) and Q (reactive power) at the machine terminals for both measured value from the physical UNITROL 1000 and the Simulated response on PowerFactory Model 
LVRT Response Graph: The overlays of Ug (generator voltage), P (active power) and Q (reactive power) at the machine terminals for both measured value from the physical UNITROL 1000 and the Simulated response on PowerFactory Model
ABB UNITROL 1000 now includes user-defined models in the following simulation platforms:
- PowerFactory
- PSS®E
- PSCAD™
- RSCAD®
Global and local experts to help with grid code needs worldwide
ABB’s dedicated team of power simulation experts provides specialized support to help operators and manufacturers meet regulatory and operational requirements. Their expertise in grid codes and technology ensures tailored, proven, and high-quality solutions across all project stages – from model implementation to certification support.
