Power Quality Conditioning in LV Distribution Networks: Results by Field Demonstration

Power quality in LV distribution networks is already a concern in many European countries especially where there is a strong presence of renewable energy generation. Therefore there is a growing interest in new solutions able to improve the power quality level of such a system. Among them, an interesting solution is represented by the open unified power quality conditioner (Open UPQC) proposed within the present work. The system consists of a single or three-phase ac/dc power converter installed at customer's premises and a main single or three-phase ac/dc power converter in the MV/LV substation. The paper discusses the design, simulation and implementation phases related to an Open UPQC installed in a real LV distribution grid in the city of Brescia (Italy) within the smart domo grid project, co-funded by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development. Results from the field installation show the effectiveness of the proposed solution to face power quality issues in distribution networks.