Power Quality Monitoring In Smart Distribution Grids

A trend of developing electricity distribution networks towards a concept of smart distribution networks has been noted for quite some time. Tendency to integrate all different systems installed in electricity distribution network has also been observed as a part of the trend. This creates the opportunity for distribution system operators to efficiently utilise the data from all the different systems and all the electronic devices, installed in electricity distribution networks, for more comprehensive and accurate network power quality (PQ) monitoring. This paper presents the possibilities of implementation of Integrated Power Quality Monitoring System (IPQMS), which should integrate all the PQ data from all the available systems in smart distribution grids. The concept of advanced IPQMS is also presented. Apart from integration of PQ data, it would also estimate the state of PQ in an analysed area, perform localisation of disturbance sources and suggest mitigation measures. Furthermore, the paper presents the possibilities, advantages and needs for implementation of such a system based on real measurement results from the electricity distribution networks of the Public Electric Utility Elektroprivreda of Bosnia and Herzegovina d.d. - Sarajevo (JP Elektroprivreda BiH d.d. - Sarajevo). The conclusion is that the implementation of IPQMS system is necessary if the complete information about the state of PQ in electricity distribution networks of the future is required.