Assessing Micro-generation＇s and Non-linear Loads＇ Impact in the Power Quality of Low Voltage Distribution Networks

Distribution networks face an increasing penetration of solar PV （photovoltaic） and small WTG （wind turbine generator） as well as other forms of micro-generation. To this scenario, one must add the dissemination of non-linear loads such as EV （electric vehicles）. There is something in common between those loads and sources： the extensive use of power electronic converters with commutated switches. These devices may be a source of medium-to-high frequency harmonic distortion and their impact on the local distribution grid must be carefully assessed in order to evaluate their negative impacts on the network, on the existing conventional loads and also on other active devices. In this paper, methodologies to characterize effects such as： harmonics, network unbalances, damaging power line resonance conditions, and over/under voltages are described and applied to a real local grid configuration.