Power quality monitoring and analysis. Case study for 220/110 kV substation

Power quality is the set of regulations of electrical properties that allows electrical systems to function without significant loss of performance or aging. The term is used to describe electric power that drives an electrical load and the load´s ability to operate properly with that electric power. Without the proper power, an electrical device (or load) may malfunction, fail prematurely or not operate at all. There are many ways when poor quality electric power is recorded and many more causes of such poor quality power. The purpose of the paper is to analyze the impact that different consumers, acting on the open market, has with respect to the power quality aspects. Within the paper a real case study is analyzed. It is represented by a real substation within the Romanian Power System. The power quality monitoring process has been performed in case of the respective substation. The links with the rest of the power system, such as two important hydro power plants and the neighbouring area has been also considered.