'International Council on Large Electric Systems - Cigre, Croatian National Committee'
Abstract
Large-scale renewable power producing plants are being integrated into South African networks.
Network operators need to ensure that Renewable Power Plants (RPP) do not negatively affect the
power quality levels of their networks, as harmonics amongst others could become a concern.
IEC 61000-3-6 details a method for allocating voltage harmonic emission limits for distorting loads.
This method works well for the allocation of emission limits; however it does not address the
management of harmonic emissions once a plant is connected to the network. The management of
harmonic emissions requires that network operators measure or quantify the emissions from loads and
generators to determine compliance. Post-connection quantification of harmonic levels and
compliance is a challenge for network operators. The question asked is “How should a network
operator measure/quantify the harmonic emissions of a load/generator to establish compliance with the
calculated limits as per IEC 61000-3-6”.
This paper reviews within a South African context methods of assessing harmonic emission levels and
then evaluates these methods by means of field data. Opportunities for improvement are identified
and operational requirements discussed
