Power Factor in Networks
Power factor is a measure of the phase difference between the voltage and current in an AC power system. In purely resistive loads (such as an incandescent lightbulb or electric kettle) the current is in phase with the voltage and there is ‘unity’ power factor. Capacitive and inductive loads (such as a capacitor banks or inductive motor respectively) will cause the current to ‘lead’ or ‘lag’ the voltage, resulting in a ‘non-unity’ power factor.
A non-unity power factor means a load is consuming both active and reactive power. Active power (also known as real or true power) is the ‘useful’ component of the AC power and is what contributes to the work done in a system (e.g. rotation of a motor shaft or the glowing of a light bulb). Reactive power oscillates between the generation source and the load, and does no work in the system. Reactive power however is needed to maintain the voltage in the system, provide magnetizing power to motors and facilitate the transmission of the active power through the AC circuit.
Four Quadrant representation of Power Factor
Reactive power and Power Factor in Solar Plant
When reactive power compensation in distribution systems is considered, almost exclusively, the case of inductive loading and compensation with capacitor banks is meant However, in the case of low loading conditions and/or networks with substantial cable sections, opposite conditions (capacitive loading) arise. Networks with high load variation, such as touristic areas with considerable difference between high-season and low-season consumption represent another example of mentioned conditions.
Most grid connected PV inverters are only set up to inject power at unity power factor, meaning they only produce active power. In effect this reduces the power factor, as the grid is then supplying less active power, but the same amount of reactive power. Therefor, it will cause both leading and lagging power factor.
Inductive and Capacitive reactive power compensation in Solar Plant
When the active power (P/kW) provided by the grid becomes smaller or even Active power reverse occurs (the active power consumed by the networks is less than the active power provided by photovoltaics), the reactive power(Q/kVAr) will be relatively large. At this time, it is necessary to accurately compensate the reactive power to increase the power factor to 1.
YTPQC Static Var Generator(SVG) and YTPQC Active Harmonic Filter(AHF) is the most suitable solution for the power factor maintain in Solar system.
It will compensate both inductive and capacitive reactive power accurately, correct the Q and P direction as required.
Our SVGs and AHFs has been used many solar plants in many countries.
Any technical inquiry about Static Var Generator(SVG) or Active Harmonic Filter(AHF), contact with us [email protected]
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