Bistability of operating modes and their switching in a three-machine power grid

We consider a power grid consisting of three synchronous generators supplying a common static load, in which one of the generators is located electrically much closer to the load than the others, due to a shorter transmission line with longitudinal inductance compensation. A reduced model is derived in the form of an ensemble with a star (hub) topology without parameter interdependence. We show that stable symmetric and asymmetric synchronous modes can be realized in the grid, which differ, in particular, in the ratio of currents through the second and third power supply paths. The modes of different types are not observed simultaneously, but the asymmetric modes always exist in pairs. A partition of the parameter space into regions with different dynamical regimes of the grid are obtained. Regions are highlighted where only synchronous operating modes can be established. It is shown that the grid can be highly multistable and, along with synchronous operating modes, have simultaneously various types of non-synchronous modes. We study non-local stability of the asymmetric synchronous modes and switchings between them under the influence one-time disturbances and additive noise fluctuations in the mechanical powers of the generators' turbines. The characteristics of one-time disturbances are obtained leading to either return the grid back to the initial synchronous mode or switching the grid to another synchronous mode or some non-synchronous mode. The characteristics of noise fluctuations are obtained, which provide either a more probable finding of the grid in the desirable quasi-synchronous mode, or switching to an undesirable one.