The Problem: Variable Speed Drives Generate Harmonics What is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD/VFD)?A Variable Speed Drive (VSD), also commonly called a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) or Adjustable Speed Drive (ASD), is an electronic device that controls the speed and torque of an AC electric motor by varying the motor's input frequency and voltage. How Do They Cause Harmonics?The internal design of a ...
When we talk about modern power systems, two technical domains often overlap but are not always fully understood together: electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and power quality. Both play crucial roles in ensuring that electrical and electronic equipment perform reliably and efficiently. For companies and industries adopting Static Var Generators (SVGs) and Active Harmonic Filters (AHFs)...
As the world accelerates toward cleaner energy, the grid is being asked to carry far more than it was ever designed for. Solar parks, wind farms, and EV charging stations are connecting at record speed. On the surface, this looks like a straightforward victory for decarbonization. Yet behind the scenes, one invisible factor quietly determines whether this energy transition can succeed: power quali...
In recent years, solar energy storage systems (ESS) have become a cornerstone of off-grid and hybrid energy solutions in remote regions. This case study highlights the transformative impact of deploying a commercial solar ESS solution in a remote business complex in Montenegro. Project Overview The site, located on the outskirts of Pljevlja in northern Montenegro, consi...
Introduction As global energy demand continues to rise, distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation has emerged as a key solution for achieving sustainable and decentralized power. In Latin America, Colombia has been steadily expanding its renewable energy capacity, with the city of Medellín—a vibrant urban hub surrounded by the Andes Mountains—leading the way in solar adoption. Th...
1. Why Do SVGs Generate Harmonics? Unlike ideal components, the real-world power electronic switches (IGBTs) in an SVG do not switch sinusoidally. They use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to synthesize a sinusoidal output current. This switching action is the primary source of harmonics. PWM Switching Frequency Harmonics: The output voltage of the SVG's H-Bridge inverters is a series of high-fre...
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to grow across Europe, Italy is accelerating its efforts to expand charging infrastructure. To support this transition, YTElect recently delivered 300 units of 22 kW three-phase AC charging stations to an Italian distributor — a major step toward strengthening the country’s public and private charging network. This deployment underscores YTEl...