Analysis of energy efficiency in low voltage distribution systems through the reduction of harmonics

Abstract

Power quality problems manifest themselves in voltage, current, or frequency deviations that cause sensitive equipment to malfunction. The integration of photovoltaic and wind plants connected to inverters and the rampant increase in non-linear loads have caused harmonic problems in the electrical system. Linear and non-linear loads, switched devices powered by sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal sources produce harmonics in the distribution system. In this sense, a bibliographic review is developed that describes significant contributions on energy efficiency in low voltage distribution systems through the reduction of harmonics; To achieve the purpose, they took into consideration the criteria of experimental researchers who often use harmonic analyzers to measure harmonics in real systems to evaluate suitable mitigation alternatives. Distorting power losses force utilities to increase apparent power to maintain a reliable and consistent power supply. Harmonic analyzers help find true power factor, total harmonic distortions, reactive and distorted power losses. It is concluded that the non-linear loads that originate harmonic currents that propagate in the electrical transmission and distribution networks, affect the quality indices of the energy supply (decrease in the useful life of electrical equipment, heating of conductors and increase in the energy consumption). This distortion can cause undesirable effects on other equipment located in the same home, such as protection devices, capacitor banks, motors, computers, etc., in addition to the overheating problems that originate in distribution lines and transformers; this phenomenon must be reduced through the use of delta-star transformers the “triple” harmonic currents; a transformer configured in star-delta for the blocking of the third harmonic (H3) and zero sequence harmonics.