Cost effective power quality improvement technique by utilization of solar power for non-linear loads

Abstract

Nowadays usage of digital gadgets and other low power devices has increased exponentially, which has power converters to convert from utility AC voltage to required level of DC voltage. These power converters (Adopters), which are considered as Non-linear loads, in turn induces harmonics on the supply side. Due to these induced harmonics, power quality of the utility supply will be degraded affecting the performance of other linear loads connected to the same supply. This paper discusses the effects of non-linear loads and corrective actions available in the literature. An effort has been made to analyze the performance of some domestic non-linear loads using MATLAB/SIMULINK software and verify the same by experimental setup. The Total Harmonic Distortion is analysed using FFT window and simulation and experimental results were compared. Then, a solar powered DC supply is proposed which can power all digital gadgets and other low power devices. As DC supply is generated from the solar power, the connection of non-linear loads to utility supply is reduced, thereby improving the power quality of the distribution side. Adoption of the proposed DC supply for low power digital gadgets, both in rural and urban areas will definitely make the domestic power consumers to be independent of depleting conventional grid power supply at low cost.