Investigation of Power Quality Issues in Renewable Energy Systems and Mitigation Techniques

Abstract

The movement to integrate small renewable distributed generation (DG) units into our existing power infrastructure
is being propelled by several significant factors: Fast industrialization's increased demand for energy, worries about
the effects of fossil fuel-based generation on the environment, the depletion of fossil energy resources, transmission
network congestion, and declining technical performance. Whether it incorporates fossil or renewable energy
sources, distribution network operators (DNOs) are aware of the problem of optimizing the technical benefits of DG
installation. However, there are unique power quality (PQ) issues with renewable DG systems. This is especially
crucial since nonlinear loads and renewable energy are become more common in distribution networks, and loads
nowadays are more susceptible to PQ disruptions. Keeping power quality stable in these networks is becoming
tougher, especially with the growing use of power electronics converters across residential, commercial, and
industrial sectors. When power quality deteriorates, it can lead to higher losses, inefficient use of distribution
systems, malfunctioning of sensitive equipment, and disturbances affecting nearby consumers, protective devices,
and communication systems. Yet, as we strive for energy savings, which will lead to more AC power being
processed through these converters, there’s a pressing need to better understand the techniques for mitigating power
quality issues.