Mitigation of Ethiopian industry sector power quality problems using ultra-capacitor based dynamic voltage restorer

Abstract

Nowadays, power quality issues; specifically, voltage sag, swell, harmonics, and interruptions have become significant challenges for customers in Ethiopia. These problems can lead to equipment damage, production losses, reduced trust, and increased unsold energy for utility providers. To address these issues, the implementation of Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) and Custom Power Devices (CPD) is crucial. In this study, we focus on Desta Garment PLC, an Ethiopian garment industry. Due to faults in a nearby substation, the factory's feeder line frequently experiences voltage sag, swell, and interruptions. As a result, the factory faces partial shutdowns and occasional hours-long interruptions. To mitigate these voltage quality problems, we propose the use of an Ultra Capacitor-based Dynamic Voltage Restorer (DVR). The DVR has been carefully selected and implemented with advanced control strategy which is adaptive fuzzy proportional integral controller. We collected one year of data from the factory and conducted simulations using MATLAB, comparing scenarios with and without the DVR. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed mitigation technique significantly enhances voltage sag and swell conditions. Importantly, the performance aligns with both IEEE 1250–1995 and IEEE 519–1992 standards. This study highlights the effectiveness of the Ultra Capacitor-based DVR in improving power quality and ensuring stable operations for Desta Garment PLC. By addressing voltage fluctuations, the factory can maintain productivity and minimize disruptions.