On the Definition of Reactive Power Under Non-Sinusoidal Conditions

A new method of defining reactive power under non- sinusoidal conditions is proposed. It consists of sub- dividing the current into components which would have the same waveform as the current in a resistance and either an inductance or a capacitance when the voltage is applied to them, and into a residual component. An instrument for subdividing and measuring each current component and its corresponding power is described. The method permits the power system operator to determine if the possibility of improving the power factor by means of a shunt capacitance or inductance exists and to easily identify the proper value required to realize the maximum benefit.