Effects of high levels of harmonics from lighting equipment and systems

Electronic-controlled gas discharge lighting systems offer efficiency and performance advantages, but to the electric grid they cause nonlinear loads that can cause power quality problems. The author analytically examines the two major concerns: power factor and harmonic distortion. He defines them, demonstrates their independence, and describes their effect on the power lines. It is pointed out that a low power factor results in overcapacity, heavier conductors, and lower efficiency. Problems surrounding harmonic distortion are very similar to those surrounding power factor. Essentially, harmonics contribute to lowering the power factor, resulting in many of the same problems as faced with displacement power factor.<>