  This paper describes a novel approach to analyze and control systems with
multi-mode oscillation problems. Traditional single dominant mode analysis
fails to provide effective control actions when several modes have similar low
damping ratios. This work addresses this problem by considering all modes in
the formulation of the system kinetic oscillation energy. The integral of
energy over time defines the total action as a measure of dynamic performance,
and its sensitivity allows comparing the performance of different
actuators/locations in the system to select the most effective one to damp the
oscillation energy. Time domain simulations in the IEEE 9-bus system and IEEE
39-bus system verify the findings obtained by the oscillation energy based
analysis. Applications of the proposed method in control and system planning
are discussed.
