How to overcome the limitations of p-q Theory: Geometric Algebra Power Theory to the rescue

This paper investigates the recent advances in Geometric Algebra-based power theory (GAPoT) and how this tool provides new insights to solve the flaws of one of the most widespread theory in the time domain, the Instantaneous Reactive Power theory (IRP) and its further enhancements. GAPoT can be applied to single-phase and multi-phase systems to obtain an optimal current decomposition under any distorted voltage source supply and load condition. This could be the case in microgrids or smart grids. Moreover, it is possible to define different strategies based on instantaneous or averaged quantities depending on whether the voltage supply conditions are non-sinusoidal or asymmetrical. Several examples illustrate how GAPoT is able to overcome the limitations of IRP theory.