Tag Archives: Power Quality Matters

Power Quality Matters involve detecting phase imbalances and ensuring that all phasors have equal magnitudes and are symmetrically phase-shifted by 120 degrees relative to each other.

Eskom at a Crossroads: The Urgent Need for Reform

Eskom at a crossroad

Eskom, South Africa’s state-owned power utility, stands at a critical juncture. Years of financial strain, operational inefficiencies, and infrastructure challenges have left the country grappling with persistent energy shortages and rolling blackouts. As power demand continues to rise, Eskom’s ability to provide reliable electricity has become a growing concern, impacting businesses, households, and the nation’s […]

Power Quality in Renewables: A Government Priority

Power Quality Matters

On April 2, 2024, Agulhas Utilities Corporation published a thought-provoking blog article titled “Compensating for Power Quality Issues Caused by Power Electronics Devices.” In this article, we highlighted the significant impact that extensive use of power electronics devices has on power quality, specifically causing voltage sags and swells (frequency swings). We also outlined several methods […]

Improving Power Quality: Key to Sustainability and Efficiency

Power Quality Matters

To proficiently conduct Symmetrical Component Analysis of power systems, one must possess a solid foundation in electrical engineering. Typically, this requires earning a master’s degree in electrical engineering, wherein specialized courses in power system analysis and symmetrical components constitute the core of the curriculum. Alternatively, an individual with an in-depth understanding of Power System Analysis […]

Understanding Power Quality and Unbalanced Power Networks

Please take a moment to review this important document and explore the links within it. Introduction The concept of “power quality” may seem abstract, especially when dealing with an intangible commodity like electricity. However, for commercial and industrial facility managers, it holds significant importance. Good power quality directly impacts productivity and employee safety. Conversely, poor […]

How do Power Quality Affect Client’s Billing

Peruse this document for a more comprehensive understanding of the subject addressed in this paper. While power electronics equipment can enhance efficiency and control, they can also cause distortions in the power system, leading to power quality issues. Harmonics, which distort the standard sinusoidal waveform of power, can result in various problems such as equipment […]

Unbalanced Network Conditions—What Are the Gains from Poor Network Conditions

What could possibly prompt Eskom or any power distribution companies to look into issues of unbalanced power networks? Could it be the threat of legal proceedings? I understood that a representative from Eskom was notified about potential network imbalances at the Modderbee municipal substation, but it might have been disregarded as unlikely. However, since I […]

How to Balance the Unbalanced Power Networks

The modern power network stands at a crossroads, grappling with an unprecedented shift in energy dynamics. As the global push for sustainability accelerates, traditional grids are being challenged by the rise of decentralized, renewable energy sources, unpredictable demand patterns, and evolving technological advancements. The power network is in flux—requiring innovative solutions to balance intermittency, ensure […]

Contravention of Fiduciary Duties

On the 2nd of October 2023, I published an article with the heading “Phase Imbalance in Distribution Networks” in which I stated that “In a recent unrelated “survey”, I came across a 10-minute averaged voltage unbalance of 327% between Phase 2 and Phase 1”. I also asked the question: is Eskom aware what is happening […]

Compensating For Power Quality Issues Caused by Power Electronics Devices

The global shift towards renewable energy sources has brought about significant structural changes in electrical power transmission. With the increase in buying and selling electricity across vast distances, high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems have become an essential component in modern grids. Both HVDC systems and solar power generation rely extensively on power electronics devices […]