The methodical distribution and management of reactive power in electrical grids in order to preserve voltage stability, reduce transmission losses, and improve overall system efficiency is known as reactive power dispatch. Although reactive power does not perform direct work, it is essential in maintaining grid stability as it controls the electromagnetic fields in AC systems to maintain voltage levels. Particularly in situations exhibiting varying load conditions and variable generation from renewable sources, reactive power dispatch maximizes the use of generation and transmission assets, eliminates cascade failures, and guarantees that voltage profiles stay below safe operating limits. Owing to the growing complexity of contemporary power systems, where voltage instability poses a serious threat to grid resilience, this technology is becoming more and more popular.

Current research with ORPD addresses new knowledge and innovative methods within power generating companies and voltage control to create opportunities in the following areas.
- Optimize the interplay between the power producer and grid owner(s) (Transmission System Operator TSO, and the Distribution System Operator DSO) through enhanced coordinated actions.
- Strengthening the national power system operational security of supply and power transfer capability while reducing investment costs and transmission losses.

In addition, standardizing interoperability across heterogeneous devices, guaranteeing cybersecurity in automated systems, and scaling real-time optimization for large-scale grids are several other of the major challenges that this collection aims to highlight through its’ research efforts.

This collection on “Optimal Reactive Power Dispatch for Improved Voltage Stability and Loadability” will cover the results of the most advanced research in this field, with a particular focus on the development and practical considerations for power systems and next-generation power system techniques.

The topics covered by this Research Topic include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Reactive Power Role and Its Controllability in AC Power Transmission Systems
- Reactive power provision by the DSO to the TSO considering DER uncertainty
- ORPD considering bus vulnerability
- ORPD using intelligent techniques
- ORPD - Challenges, Solutions and Applications in AC Power Systems
- ORPD considering the impact of Renewable Energy Sources
- Low inertia grid operation, cascading failure, blackout, fault ride through, voltage flickering

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Optimal Reactive Power Dispatch for Resilient Power System Operation