Determination of harmonic contributions using active filter: Theoretical and experimental results

Abstract

The nonexistence of a methodology feasible in practice to determine the responsibilities (contributions) of a customer and the utility on harmonic voltage distortions at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC) of these systems is a serious problem when there are violations of harmonic voltage limits, since it is impossible to define the participation in expenses with the adoption of mitigating measures (e.g., filter installation). To solve the problem, this paper proposes a methodology for determining these responsibilities. Its development is based on the performance of active filters and meters (voltage and current) connected to the PCC (or in its vicinity). The computational simulation of the methodology was applied to all cases of the IEEE Benchmark System, proving its validity and effectiveness. In addition, a laboratory circuit specially designed and with characteristics like those of real systems allowed its experimental validation, since in this controlled environment the quantities of interest that should be reproduced by the methodology could be accurately determined. One of its important characteristics is the possibility of verifying whether the adopted hypothesis for the validity of its application has been met.