Background Information on the Power Quality Requirements in IEEE Std 1547-2018

This NREL report provides a broad overview of the power quality requirements contained in IEEE Std 1547-2018, as well as a summary of the introductory concepts related to power quality concerns.

Topics Covered

This report on the power quality requirements in IEEE Std 1547-2018 includes the following topics:

• Common types of power quality concerns and background on how they are caused
• An overview of the requirements set by IEEE Std 1547-2018 to address power quality concerns
• High-level summaries of the power quality test requirements and regulations set by IEEE Std 1547-2018.

Key Takeaways

There are six types of power quality concerns that are addressed in the IEEE 1547-2018 requirements. These include:

1. Flicker
2. Rapid voltage changes
3. Voltage and current distortion (harmonics)
4. Overvoltage
5. DC injection
6. Electromagnetic interference.

Each of these power quality concerns have varying causes, such as fluctuations and variations in power, current and voltage, and if these fluctuations exceed specified conditions for magnitude and duration, they can potentially cause harm to utility equipment and to people. To reduce these negative impacts, IEEE Std 1547-2018 sets limits that target the specific causes of each power quality concern.

Test requirements are also specified in IEEE Std 1547-2018. These include type tests which are typically conducted at a testing facility or laboratory, and commissioning tests which are typically conducted in the field. Overall, most power quality concerns are addressed in IEEE Std 1547-2018. However, some requirements rely on external factors and characteristics, which are beyond the scope of this standard.