What device is used to absorb MVAR and reduce system voltage at high voltage stations?

The device that is used to absorb MVAR (megavolt amperes reactive) and reduce system voltage at high voltage stations is a shunt reactor. Shunt reactors are essential for voltage control in electrical power systems, particularly in high voltage applications where reactive power management is crucial.

When the transmission line is lightly loaded or experiences low demand, the voltage can rise due to the capacitive effects of the system. Shunt reactors are connected in parallel with the transmission line to absorb excess reactive power, thus lowering the voltage to more desirable levels. By doing so, they help maintain voltage stability across the network, reducing the risk of voltage-related issues such as overvoltages.

In contrast, the other devices listed play different roles within the power system. For instance, static voltage compensators provide dynamic voltage support rather than absorbing reactive power. Phase shifting transformers are typically used to control the flow of power between different parts of the system rather than directly managing reactive power. Series capacitors are employed to add reactive power into a transmission line, increasing voltage and enhancing transmission capacity, which is the opposite of what is intended when using a shunt reactor.