Power quality assessment in LV networks using new smart meters design

Abstract

This paper addresses the issue of power quality management in smart grids. Present development of smart grid technologies such as smart metering are continuously generating novel opportunities and breakthroughs for improving the distribution system performance. This paper proposes a novel approach to be implemented in the new generation of smart meters. This alternative method for harmonics and voltage level analysis dramatically reduces the computational power, in order to allow the inclusion of such functionalities in new Smart Meters design. The developed algorithm is detailed and some results are presented. This solution provides an easy access to the power quality issues at customer level, being an important improvement when prosumers are also considered. Unbundled Smart Meter design is also analysed as an appropriate solution for implementing complex PQ assessments.