Detection of Power Grid Harmonic Pollution Sources based on Upgraded Power Meters

Abstract

The paper suggests a new and efficient method for location of nonlinear loads on a grid. It is based on measuring of distortion power. The paper reviews different definitions of distortion power and proves that the method is feasible independently on particular definition. The obtained results of simulation and measurement confirm the effectiveness and applicability of the method. The proposed solution is suitable for software update of existing electronic power-meters or can be implement as hardware upgrade.

Utility needs smarter power meters in order to reduce economic losses

“…We will show in this paper that the main source of losses caused by consumers at a contemporary grid is not due to the unregistered reactive power. As was presented in some earlier papers [5,6,7] and as will be presented here on some other examples, the main source of losses is due to the non-registered distortion power. We prove that distortion power has the same order of magnitude as active power at most contemporary power-saving electronic devices.…”

“…As presented in this and some previous papers [24], only minor modification in dedicated DSP hardware or software for DSPs or MCUs built-in the meters is sufficient to enable them to measure distortion power, as well. Armed with this feature, the meters installed at PCC allow utility an opportunity to identify the source of harmonics at the grid [5], [7]. This opens the possibility to bill separately each component of power.…”

“…Accordingly, utilities suffer huge losses. As we, and other authors, proved by measuring [5], [6], [7], this component of power cannot be neglected. In addition, harmonics will produce indirect losses to the utility due to malfunction in other power grid equipment [9], [10].…”

“…The distortion power is practically delivered to the customers, but is not visible at the side of power distributor. Namely, when one calculates active, reactive, and apparent powers according to (4), (5), and (6), respectively, they get for sine-wave condition a well known relation:…”

The analysis of output voltage distortion of inverter for frequency lower than the nominal

“…Voltage distortion is the factor which boosts energy consumption and generates additional thermal effects [12,14], therefore, works are underway with a view to reducing voltage distortion [15], as well as identifying its sources [16]. The basic tool used in the assessment of voltage waveform distortion is the frequency analysis that uses Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) [2,4,7].…”