What do PARs primarily manage in PJM?

Phase Angle Regulators (PARs) are specialized devices used in transmission systems to manage reactive power flow. They primarily adjust the phase angle between two electrical nodes, which directly influences how reactive power flows through the transmission lines. By controlling the phase angle, PARs help mitigate the effects of capacitive and inductive loads on the grid, ensuring that reactive power is effectively managed to maintain system stability and improve the reliability of the electrical network.

Effective reactive power management is crucial for several reasons. It helps maintain voltage levels within acceptable limits, enhances power transfer capacity, and reduces losses in the transmission system. This means that while PARs may indirectly assist with voltage stability and overall system reliability by managing reactive power, their primary function is focused specifically on regulating the flow of reactive power.

This specific role distinguishes PARs from other devices in the power system, which might deal more directly with active power, frequency stability, or voltage levels in different manners. Understanding the specific function of PARs contributes to a broader comprehension of how different components within the PJM system interact to ensure efficient and stable electricity transmission.