An Overview on Power Quality Issues and Control Strategies for Distribution Networks With the Presence of Distributed Generation Resources

TLDR

The shift from centralized fossil‑fuel generation to distributed renewable resources has increased power quality challenges in low‑ and medium‑voltage distribution systems, especially due to inverter switching frequencies that can induce harmonic distortion, resonances, and reduced equipment life. This paper offers a roadmap for researchers to investigate and address power quality issues in distribution networks with distributed generation. The discussion highlights the critical need for research and solutions to improve power quality in distribution networks.

Abstract

Power systems based on centralized production are facing two limitations: the lack of fossil fuels and the need to reduce pollution; Therefore, the importance of distributed generation resources (DGs) has increased by connecting renewable energy systems to the network. With the increasing penetration of renewable energies in the network, power quality challenges in low voltage and medium voltage distribution systems have become one of the main fields of studies. Since most of the renewable energy systems are connected to the network with the help of electronic power converters devices and the main purpose of these converters is to connect DGs to the network in compliance with power quality standards; Therefore, if the switching frequency of inverters is not implemented properly, major power quality problems will be created. On the other hand, the reduction in power quality causes acute problems in power networks, which include lack of proper performance, reduction in useful life and efficiency of electrical and electronic devices in the network, creation of series and parallel resonance in some harmonics due to the presence of inductors and the capacitor, and as a result, more distortion in the voltage of the distribution network. This paper actually provides a road-map for researchers to investigate power quality issues. In other words, the mentioned cases show the importance of research and providing the solutions to improving power quality in distribution networks.