The paradox: why sustainable technology pollutes your installation

The energy transition is forcing organisations to electrify. You replace traditional, fossil-based processes with electrical alternatives. This leads to a radical change in the structure of your electrical installation. Where linear loads (such as light bulbs and directly switched motors) used to be the norm, power electronics now dominate. This entails a fundamental change in the physics of your power grid.

Think of the inverters in your PV plant, the variable speed drives in your heat pumps and the rectifiers in EV chargers. These devices are highly efficient, but they work by 'chopping' alternating current into pieces to create the desired frequency or voltage. This switching process inevitably causes side effects: harmonic contamination, voltage dips, rapid voltage variations and reactive current.

The result is polluted sine wave form. Your existing installation - including transformers, cabling and protective devices - was often not originally designed for this complexity. This creates Power Quality problems that initially remain invisible. Without intervention, these effects accumulate ("the bucket fills up"), until the limit of your installation is reached and operational reliability is compromised.

Technical impact: from harmonics to internal grid congestion

The impact of the energy transition on Power Quality manifests itself in various technical phenomena. For the technical manager and installation manager, it is crucial to distinguish them. Only with the right diagnosis can we eliminate the cause.

Modern inverters switch at very high frequencies to be more efficient and compact. These so-called supraharmonics behave differently from classical harmonics.

Consequence: They can go right through capacitors and resonate in your installation. This often leads to failures in control electronics, PLCs, touchscreens and smart meters, resulting in inexplicable process stops.

Modern inverters switch at very high frequencies to be more efficient and compact. These so-called supraharmonics behave differently from classical harmonics.

Consequence: They can go right through capacitors and resonate in your installation. This often leads to failures in control electronics, PLCs, touchscreens and smart meters, resulting in inexplicable process stops.

Many companies fear grid congestion on the public grid, but forget about congestion within their own gates. Electrification increases energy demand, while solar feed-in creates peaks.

Consequence: Your internal transformers and main distributors become overloaded, even when average consumption seems to be within standards. By reducing reactive current and harmonics, you can often free up capacity ("Capacity Release") and postpone costly reinforcements.

Switching on and off large power, such as a fleet of electric vehicles starting charging at the same time or a heat pump switching on, causes dips and spikes.

Impact: Sensitive equipment in hospitals or data centres needs a stable voltage. A brief dip can be enough to cause systems to fall into failure, resulting in data loss or product failure.

The impact of poor Power Quality on your operations

Power quality problems often lurk long before they escalate. However, when the limit is reached, the consequences are immediately felt in your operations. For sectors with critical processes, such as industry, healthcare and data centres, these risks are unacceptable.

Overloaded electrical circuit causes short circuit and fire
  • Unplanned downtime:
    This is the biggest cost. Production lines fall down, robots reset themselves or IT systems crash for no apparent reason. The cost per minute of downtime is often many times higher than the investment in a good Power Quality solution.
  • Safety risks and fire hazards:
    In installations with many single-phase non-linear loads (such as offices full of computers and LED), 3rd harmonic currents can add up in the neutral conductor. The neutral may overload and become red hot, even if the phase wires are not overloaded. This is a real fire risk.
  • Loss of warranty:
    Manufacturers of costly equipment (such as medical scanners or production machines) are placing increasingly stringent demands on the quality of the power supply. If damage is found to have been caused by poor Power Quality in your installation, your right to warranty claims is often forfeited.

Our approach: insight, simulation and a definitive solution

At HyTEPS, we do not believe in trial and error or blindly fitting a standard filter. The complexity of modern installations requires a scientific, data-driven approach. We take over responsibility from problem definition to solution.

Engineer measuring

Step 1: Measuring and analysing

Our engineers start with a thorough analysis of your installation. We perform a Power Quality measurement and install advanced measuring equipment to record the quality of voltage and current over a representative period. We look beyond standard standards; we look for the specific interactions between your sources (PV, Grid) and your loads (EV, machines).

Step 2: Modelling and Simulation

Data is just the beginning. With the collected measurement data, we build a digital model of your electrical installation in our advanced simulation software. In this 'Digital Twin' environment, we test the effects of possible solutions.

  • What happens when we install an active harmonic filter?
  • What will be the effect if you add another 10 charging stations next month? That way we can be sure that the proposed solution works in practice: First time right.
Modelling and Simulation

Step 3: Solving and improving

Based on the simulation, we implement the technically and economically best solution. This can range from rearranging transformers (taps) to installing Active Harmonic Filters (AHF) or capacitor banks. We do not just supply hardware; we deliver a working system that secures your operational reliability and makes your installation compliant with the standards again.

Results from practice:

550 Amp released power: from capacity problem to growth space

Nijsen was struggling with high costs and lack of capacity due to reactive power. Our active capacitor banks eliminated the penalties and immediately created 550 amps of extra space on the transformers.

Structural cost reduction through elimination of reactive power penalties at VDL Parree

By deploying a 300 kVA capacitor bank, HyTEPS stopped monthly reactive power penalties at VDL Parree. This intervention increased efficiency and created additional capacity immediately, so the investment paid for itself within a year.

No room for error: how Zentrys guarantees 24/7 continuity

HyTEPS ensures the operational reliability of Zentrys through targeted arc scanning and selectivity testing. With digital simulations, we eliminate invisible risks for maximum continuity and a safe working environment.

500 amp extra capacity and complete elimination of blind current penalties at Mauser

Through targeted measurements and active filtering, HyTEPS eliminated grid contamination and blind current penalties at Mauser Packaging Solutions . This immediately provided 500 amps of extra capacity, allowing production to scale up safely without investing in a heavier grid connection .

Production outages eliminated by stable Power Quality at Mannesmann

HyTEPS solved the failure of air compressors at Mannesmann by immediately eliminating harmful harmonic contamination. With active filtering and continuous monitoring, precision tube production is now fully stabilised.

Optimal operational reliability through data-driven energy monitoring

HyTEPS implemented an advanced monitoring system that gives CurTec real-time grip on energy consumption and Power Quality. This data-driven solution prevents blind power penalties and ensures a stable, climate-neutral future.

Real-time Power Quality insight secures production of 290,000 tonnes of zinc

By tackling unexplained outages with high-end monitoring, HyTEPS ensured continuity at Nyrstar. Real-time insight into Power Quality now prevents unnecessary downtime.

Extra production capacity through Cos Phi optimisation at Naber Plastics

HyTEPS increased installation capacity at Naber Plastics by targeting reactive power. With a 400kVAr capacitor bank, our engineers immediately created space for additional machinery. This results in optimum power utilisation and maximum operational reliability.

Sustainable expansion without grid reinforcement at Clondalkin Flexible Packaging

HyTEPS ensures continuity at Clondalkin with a system that combines energy insight with automatic HACCP recording. This eliminates risky manual checks and maximises operational reliability.

Maximum operational reliability for Amphia: 100% grip on Power Quality

Our engineers analysed Power Quality with continuous waveform recording to ensure maximum safety. Thanks to continuous monitoring, all risks are now under control and care continuity is guaranteed.

5MW plant safely expanded without grid congestion risk

To prevent downtime at the new 5MW plant, HyTEPS preventively implemented two Active Harmonic Filters. This assures ARN Recycling of a stable energy network and maximum business continuity.

100% Proactive Reliability for the Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier

For absolute operational reliability of the Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier, our engineers carried out a proactive Power Quality analysis on behalf of Heijmans. Through strategic measurements, we mapped the electrical installation, preventing potential problems and ensuring that this crucial Delta work is always ready.

Preventing unplanned downtime by eliminating harmonic pollution at Nyrstar

HyTEPS eliminated high-risk harmonic contamination at Nyrstar. Our specialist measurements provided an exact diagnosis and a guaranteed stable production environment.

Grid analysis at PLB Group prevents unnecessary battery investment

An independent Power Quality measurement at PLB Group exposed unused spare capacity. Through targeted optimisations, we avoided the purchase of an expensive battery storage system. This provides the customer with enormous cost savings, while maintaining security in every kilowatt.

4MW solar panels integrated without grid pollution at KLM

HyTEPS integrated 4 MW of solar panels at KLM Schiphol without risk. By eliminating grid pollution with Active Harmonic Filters, we ensure maximum operational reliability and a stable installation in Hangar 14.

Full operational reliability through elimination of grid contamination at Sappi Maastricht

Sappi Maastricht eliminated costly production downtime by targeting harmful harmonics with a Power Quality diagnosis and active filtering. This investment fully restored operational reliability and paid for itself within a year due to the guaranteed continuity.

Maximum grid capacity through targeted reactive power compensation at Xella

HyTEPS restored installation capacity at Xella by targeting reactive power with capacitor banks. The solution offers Xella an immediate cost reduction and sustainable security in every kilowatt.

Halving harmonic contamination increases operational reliability at Thialf

Thialf was struggling with unexplained failure of critical variable speed drives. HyTEPS implemented Active Harmonic Filters, which successfully reduced the harmonic pollution (THDu) present to below 4%. Supplemented by permanent monitoring, this now ensures an extremely stable and reliable installation.

100% operational reliability for taxiway lighting at Schiphol Airport

HyTEPS identified the risks to the taxiway lighting at Schiphol Airport through accurate measurements. With the subsequent solution, the continuity and safety of this critical installation is fully guaranteed.

Communication stability ensured by elimination of EMI at Schiphol Airport

HyTEPS eliminated electromagnetic interference in the Schiphol T2000 network after an integral EMC study. This approach restored system integrity and guaranteed uninterrupted communication for emergency services.

National security of supply secured with large-scale Power Quality monitoring

HyTEPS continuously analyses and validates Power Quality data from the entire Dutch power grid. Our customised software transforms this complex data stream into reliable control information for optimal security of supply.

Continuity in passenger flows through EMC control

Harmonic contamination threatened the continuity of Schiphol's security lanes. HyTEPS analysed the risks and installed seven active filters to restore grid quality. The result is a stable installation and guaranteed operational security for millions of passengers.

Safe innovation: Arc calculation for the world's fastest charging battery

Our engineers performed specialist arc simulations to ensure the safety of InMotion's unique battery pack. Thanks to this concrete analysis, the team is now working on ultra-fast charging technology with the right protective equipment and complete certainty.

Rijkswaterstaat ensures tunnel safety with 40% spare capacity

HyTEPS eliminates harmonic pollution in the Ruhr Tunnel by implementing four active filters. Thanks to 40% spare capacity, technical safety for Rijkswaterstaat is guaranteed under all circumstances.

Maximum operational reliability for offshore giant: ground loops eliminated

HyTEPS eliminated years of cable insulation damage on the Bumblebee due to a hidden ground loop in the complex offshore installation through a focused Power Quality. This proactive approach restores operational continuity and provides Allseas with the maximum reliability their operation requires.

Fault-free LED transition for De Kuip stadium

In an environment where tens of thousands of spectators count on continuity, downtime is not an option. HyTEPS secures Power Quality at Stadion Feijenoord, so that the transition to LED lighting leads directly to guaranteed performance without invisible risks.

100% care continuity through optimal Power Quality at Rivierenland Hospital

Hospital Rivierenland ensures safe care by working with HyTEPS to eliminate harmonic contamination in the installation. The deployment of Active Harmonic Filters now guarantees optimum Power Quality and maximum operational reliability.

From unexplained outages to maximum operational reliability: Power Quality at Vencomatic Group

Conservation at Vencomatic inadvertently led to harmonic contamination and failure of critical equipment. After a proactive Power Quality measurement, our engineers implemented Active Harmonic Filters, which successfully stabilised the plant and ensured operational reliability.

1.75 MW of power released and direct cost reduction at SNB

Despite own generation, SNB was struggling with high costs due to reactive power. HyTEPS optimised the installation with capacitor banks. The result: 1.75MW less grid load and a payback time within one year.

Direct cost savings and extra capacity for Van Munster Recyclers

Van Munster Recyclers eliminated the reactive power penalty and immediately created additional capacity with a HyTEPS capacitor bank. Thanks to the immediate cost savings, this solution paid for itself within one year.

75% Faster shutdown times for safe battery storage at iwell

For iwell's battery system, HyTEPS conducted an Arc Flash Compliance study to ensure electrical safety. The new settings reduced shutdown times by 75%, reducing dangerous arc flash energy to safe levels.

Optimisation of grid capacity and operational reliability at OVET B.V.

Grid congestion and complex Power Quality issues threatened to stall OVET B.V.'s expansion plans. HyTEPS implemented an advanced monitoring system that provides exact insight into consumption and peaks. This allows OVET to safely expand and make maximum use of existing capacity without the risk of outages.

Legislation and regulations: your responsibility

As an installation manager, you have to deal with strict standards. The energy transition makes compliance more complex.

  • EN 50160 & IEC 61000: These standards describe voltage quality. In the event of damage or injury caused by faulty installations, your compliance with this duty of care is assessed.
  • NEN 1010: Strict regulations also apply to safety and dimensioning of cables (taking harmonics into account).

HyTEPS not only helps you technically, but also ensures that you demonstrably comply with these regulations. We provide reports that you can submit to insurers and grid operators.

Frequently asked questions about grid congestion and solutions

Answer:

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems generate direct current, which is converted to alternating current by an inverter (inverter). This switching process always causes some degree of harmonic contamination. In addition, when there is a lot of solar irradiation and low offtake, the voltage in the system can get so high that inverters fail to protect the grid. This leads to yield losses.

Answer:

Electric vehicles charging at high powers. The simultaneous initiation of multiple charging sessions creates peaks in the load (inrush currents). Moreover, chargers contain rectifiers that generate harmonics and supraharmonics. Without filtering, this can lead to overheating of transformers, neutral conductors and faults in other connected equipment.

Answer:

Grid congestion, simply put, is congestion on the power grid. At peak times, the demand for power (or the supply in case of feed-in) is greater than the cables and transformers can handle. As a result, grid operators refuse new connections or reinforcements to companies.

Answer:

Yes, in part. Grid congestion often takes place on the grid operator's network, but you can optimise your internal capacity. By reducing reactive current and harmonic contamination, you reduce the useless current flowing through your cables and transformers. This frees up space ("Free capacity") for new equipment, such as additional charging stations or heat pumps, without you needing a heavier (and often unavailable) grid connection straight away.

Answer:

LED lighting uses non-linear power supplies (drivers) that introduce harmonic currents. In large healthcare facilities with thousands of luminaires, this contamination adds up, leading to overheating of neutral conductors and transformers, and unexplained failure of other sensitive electronics.

Answer:

The cos phi concerns only the phase shift of the ground wave, while the power factor includes the influence of harmonics. We analyse both values to determine the overall efficiency of your installation.

Answer:

This is not always necessary. Heat pumps are large consumers that often use variable speed drives. This puts extra strain on the transformer, both thermally and through harmonics. By first carrying out a Power Quality measurement and simulation, HyTEPS can determine whether you can keep the current transformer by applying active filtering, for example. This saves considerable investment costs and lead time.

Answer:

Supraharmonics are disturbances in the frequency range between 2 kHz and 150 kHz. They are mainly caused by modern inverters in solar panels and EV chargers. These high frequencies are notorious for passing right through capacitors. They cause communication failures in smart meters, building management systems and PLCs. They are often the cause of 'ghost faults' that cannot be explained by standard measurement equipment.

Answer:

There are several standards such as EN 50160 (for voltage at the transfer point) and the IEC 61000 series (for EMC and Power Quality within installations). HyTEPS tests your installation against these standards through advanced measurements. We deliver a clear report that indicates in understandable language where you are at risk and how to become compliant again.

Answer:

This is a common issue in sustainability. The filters in variable speed drives and inverters 'leak' a small current to earth as part of their operation. If you have many appliances on one group, these leakage currents add up and the earth leakage circuit breaker will trip without an actual fault. Harmonic currents can also cause this behaviour. An analysis of the leakage currents provides the answer here.

Answer:

Investing in Power Quality is not a cost, but a business case. It delivers immediate returns: you avoid costly downtime, extend the life of your equipment and make maximum use of your existing connection capacity. It gives you the certainty that your sustainable ambitions will not come at the expense of operational reliability. It creates peace of mind in the organisation.

Ready for the next step in your energy transition?

Don't let invisible pollution block your sustainable ambitions. Choose security and continuity. HyTEPS is ready to future-proof your installation.

Would you like to know the impact of sustainability on your specific situation? Do you have plans for expansion or are you already experiencing unexplained failures? Our engineers will be happy to think along with you about the right strategy.