Correlation of weather conditions and power quality for distributed generation and modern loads

With increasing number of renewable energy installations being added to the Ontario electrical grid, many local distribution companies have raised concerns regarding harmonic impact(s) on the distribution system. The majority of such renewable energy sources consist of solid-state inverters, which can potentially cause damage to utility equipment and appliances due to their high harmonic profiles. Also, modern home loads contribute to power quality degradation, due to nonlinear loads and variable frequency drive appliances, which contribute significantly to harmonic content. This paper provides analysis of harmonic profiles for energy efficient homes combined with renewable energy sources, relative to meteorological conditions.