Demand Side Power Quality – Identify problems before they occur

Monitoring of grid quality on the consumption side (demand)

Here we would like to explain to you how to approach the subject of power quality in a structured way and, in the best case, how to contribute to eliminating and avoiding faults.

  • Basis: Demand Side Power Quality according to IEC TR 63191
  • Measuring point: IPC’s (In-Plant Points of Coupling)

Field of application

 
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Description of the context, objectives and limits

The first step is an analysis of the internal network infrastructure for all plant sections, zones, energy supply systems and consumers in focus. The plan to be implemented includes participants, time frame, resources etc.

Evaluation of the current power quality situation

In the second step, the essential loads and their effects on the internal electrical network are evaluated and assessed (e.g. PQ simulation).
In relation to the defined objective, it is determined where in the existing system which data must be collected in order to gain the necessary insights. Based on this, the required measuring equipment is determined. Here, the already existing measurement infrastructure is taken into account and included where possible.

Definition of an action plan to improve the network quality situation

Based on the previous analysis, suitable measures are proposed to achieve the DSPQ objectives described (DSPQ: Demand Side Power Quality). A detailed action plan must be defined. This includes all aspects of the planned measurement campaign – with measuring instruments and their installation, the technical data acquisition, consolidation and condensation as well as planning the time windows, internal communication and cyclical review of the acquisition system in this phase.

Implementation of the action plan to establish the network quality measurement system

The next step is to implement in detail the action plan that has been drawn up and approved. This applies in particular to the physical installation of all necessary components to collect the required data. The DSPQ measuring system is set up and put into operation.

Use of the measurement system and evaluation of the measurement data

The measures listed in the Action Plan have been implemented according to the priorities and the effects can be verified with the DSPQ measurement system. Obtained data are systematically collected, stored and are available for ongoing evaluation. This allows a continuous evaluation of the power quality situation. Improvements over time are made visible.

Maintaining the measuring system

In the last step, the DSPQ measurement system will be checked to ensure a sustainable operation of the measurement infrastructure in the future. It is important that the data acquisition is permanently reliable and metrologically accurate. Relevant measures for this are discussed with the customer and described in an action plan (e.g. for maintenance and repair).

Interesting facts

About 80% of all PQ disturbances occur within the facilities at the IPC (In Plant Points of Couplings), i.e. after the PCC (Point of Common Coupling) and not from external sources. For this reason it makes sense to address the issue of network quality on the consumer side. In the context of smart metering as well as smart grids, the topic must also be given more and more importance, as network quality goes hand in hand with energy.

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