Discrete Frequency Tuning Active Filter for Power System Harmonics

Severe voltage distortion, due to power system harmonic resonance, has been reported in recent years. This issue becomes more significant in high penetration of a photovoltaic (PV) network. A conventional voltage detection active filter operates as similar conductance for all harmonic frequencies to resolve this problem whether in a fixed conductance command or in an automatic gain adjustment control. However, its filtering capability is impeded by the mismatch between the active filter and the radial line, and the voltage distortion may still be significant. This paper proposes a discrete frequency tuning active filter to suppress power system harmonics. The active filter operates as variable conductance for each individual harmonic frequency. Each harmonic conductance is dynamically adjusted according to the corresponding harmonic voltage distortion of the active filter installation point in response to increase or decrease of nonlinear loads, or variation of resonant frequency in the power system. The mismatching problem between the feeder impedance and the active filter can be avoided effectively. Therefore, harmonic voltage distortion can be maintained at an allowable level throughout the feeder with lower peak current and lower rms current of the active filter, and loads installed at various locations of the power system receive more uniform voltage waveform.