OPTIMIZING SMART GRID POWER QUALITY WITH ENHANCED UNIFIED POWER QUALITY CONDITIONERS

Abstract

This paper presents a novel approach to enhancing power quality in smart grids through the implementation of a Modified Unified Power Quality Conditioner (UPQC). As the integration of renewable energy sources and advanced technologies in power systems increases, maintaining high power quality becomes crucial for ensuring reliable operation and minimizing disruptions. The Modified UPQC combines the functionalities of both series and shunt converters, effectively mitigating common power quality issues such as voltage sags, swells, harmonics, and reactive power imbalances. Through comprehensive simulation studies, the performance of the Modified UPQC is evaluated under various operating conditions and disturbance scenarios. Results demonstrate a significant improvement in power quality metrics, including reduced total harmonic distortion (THD) and enhanced voltage stability, thereby validating the effectiveness of the proposed solution. Furthermore, the paper discusses advanced control strategies employed in the Modified UPQC to optimize its performance and adaptability in real-time applications. The findings underscore the potential of this innovative technology to play a critical role in improving power quality in modern smart grids, facilitating the transition towards more resilient and efficient energy systems.