Harmonic Mitigation

Objective(s)

The main objectives of the project are:

• Completion of literature review on existing solutions for managing network harmonics.
• Creation of an algorithm that by controlling each inverter individually is managing the network’s harmonics.
• Creation of an algorithm that by controlling all inverters in the network is managing the network’s harmonics.

Problem(s)

It is expected that due to the increasing number of non-linear devices being connected to the distribution network, the harmonics in the network can become a challenge for Distribution Network Operators (DNOs). Existing solutions for managing harmonics are not suitable for dynamic networks with varying operating conditions or can be very expensive. Therefore, it is important to find alternative solutions in order to be able to manage harmonic levels in the network in a cost effective way.

Method(s)

The aim of this project is to develop an algorithm that can improve the network’s harmonic levels by controlling existing Distributed Generation inverters and will be delivered by Swansea University. As part of this, a number of power system studies will be performed in order to develop, implement the algorithm and test its operation. The algorithm will also be tested in a simulated environment at a university laboratory. This project will provide recommendations as to whether a further project is recommended for the trial of the algorithm in the network. The technical work produced will be reviewed by Power Systems Consultants (PSC).

• Scope

  The project has been split into the following Work Packages:

  • Work Package 1 – Literature Review, Model Creation and Base Studies: As part of this Work Package, a detailed literature review will be done on the already developed approaches to managing harmonics in the network and any algorithms that relate to the proposed approach in the Harmonic Mitigation project. Additionally, the MATLAB model of the network that will be analysed will be created and validated. The base case harmonic studies will also be run in this Work Package, providing the reference that will be used to assess the algorithms impact on harmonic levels in the following Work Packages.
  • Work Package 2 – Algorithm Design, Development and Implementation for single inverter control: This Work Package will involve the design and implementation of the algorithm that will be able to control each inverter individually.
  • Work Package 3 - Algorithm Design, Development and Implementation for multiple inverter control: As part of this Work Package, the algorithm will be further developed so that it can control multiple inverters.
  • Work Package 4 – Hardware In the Loop (HIL) Testing: In this Work Package, the developed solution will be used in order to demonstrate the operation of the algorithm on an actual inverter at a university laboratory. As part of this test, the model of the network used in Work Package 2 will be used to simulate the test network and an actual inverter will be connected to this simulated network. The operation of the algorithm and control of the inverter will then be tested.
• Success criteria

  The project will be considered successful if:

  • The developed algorithm can improve the harmonic levels when controlling one converter.
  • The developed algorithm can improve the harmonic levels when controlling multiple inverters.
  • The Hardware In the Loop testing confirms the correct operation of the algorithm and successful response from the inverter.
  • Knowledge is gained on whether the harmonic levels in the network can be improved by controlling existing inverters.
  • Conclusions are made on whether a demonstration project is recommended.
• Potential for new learning

  The learning that will be generated in this project will be applicable by all UK DNOs since it will show through power system studies whether it is possible to manage the harmonics in the network using existing DG inverters. The design of the algorithm that will be developed and the final full code will be documented in the relevant reports and shared with all UK DNOs so that it can be studied on any other network.

• Documents and links

  NIA Project Registration and PEA Document

  WP1: Model Development July 2020

  WP2: AF Functionality Report November 2020

  WP2: AF Functionality Slides

  WP3: Algorithm design, development and implementation for multiple inverters June 21

  Literature Review January 2020

  PSC Harmonic Mitigation Technical Summary Report February 2022

  WP4 HIL Testing January 2022 

  Closedown Report 

  ENA Project Closedown Report 

• Monthly updates

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