New assessing criteria for the contribution of nonlinear loads to the supply voltage harmonic distortion

This paper presents the definition of a new weighted power quality index to be used to coherently evaluate the level of harmonic distortion in electrical systems and quantify the share of responsibility between loads and mains. Simulation and experimental tests carried out under different load conditions, show the proposed performance index gives correct information about the actual contribution of a non-linear load to the voltage quality at the point of common coupling (PCC).