Improving Power Distribution Efficiency On Power Lines

Abstract

This paper discusses the power factor of transmission and distribution lines for selected power utility substations. The choice of selection of lines was based on the nature of the load and the status of the loading. The data collected and analyzed revealed that some feeder lines at most of substations are distributing active power at low PF below the grid threshold limit. Feeder lines mainly supplying domestic loads have their PF generally low and on the other hand, it was found that feeder lines supplying industrial loads have power factor well above the statutory limit. It is concluded that it is imperative to compensate the reactive current on feeder lines supplying mainly domestic loads in the vicinity of the loads i.e. near the distribution transformers to improve the power factor of these feeder lines in order to increase distribution efficiency and improve the voltage profile.

Keywords: Reactive power, VAr compensator, Power factor, Energy meter, Feeder lines