Factor analysis of power quality variation data on a distribution network

Continuous power quality (PQ) surveys of electricity networks generate large amounts of data that must be condensed for the purpose of interpretation and reporting. In this paper, summary indices for continuous PQ disturbances are calculated from distribution network data, and the relationship between these indices and the known physical characteristics of the site is investigated. Results from this survey prompted further analysis into the relationship between voltage harmonic distortion (THD_v) levels and variation in load characteristics across the monitored sites. Accepted explanations for variation in THD_v are evaluated against the observed levels and alternative explanations are proposed.