The Influence of Microgeneration Facilities on the Power Quality in Distribution Electrical Networks

The article presents the results of a study of the specific effects the microgeneration facilities based on photovoltaic converters have on power quality indicators related to voltage deviation and voltage unbalance. It is shown that the occurrence of reverse power flows and single-phase connection of microgeneration facilities have an adverse effect on the power quality. The key factors influencing the performance quality of low-voltage distribution networks with microgeneration facilities based on photovoltaic converters are identified. It is shown that inverters are unable to provide efficient reactive power control for maintaining the electric power quality under a potential increase in the amount of implemented microgeneration facilities based on photovoltaic converters. Based on an analysis of global experience and established provisions, a new theoretical approach to improving the performance quality of low-voltage distribution networks with microgeneration facilities based on photovoltaic converters has been developed, the effectiveness of which is confirmed through simulation.