Understand the quality of your energy

Power quality may sound like an abstract technical concept, but its impact is very concrete. To explain it simply, we often use the comparison with water pipes.

Imagine turning on the tap. You not only expect water to come out (availability), but also that the water pressure is constant and the water is clear. If the pressure suddenly drops, your washing machine will stop. If the water is contaminated with sand or rust, your pipes clog up and your appliances break down.

Voltage is pressure, current is flow. In your electrical installation, it works exactly the same way. The 'voltage' is the pressure and the 'current' is the water flowing. In an ideal world, that current is a perfect, uniform wave motion (the sine wave). But practice is unruly.

With the huge proliferation of modern electronics, power becomes polluted. Peaks, troughs and distortions occur on the grid. We call this poor Power Quality. To the naked eye this is invisible, but for your sensitive equipment it is disastrous. Your installation has to work harder to transport energy, cables get unnecessarily hot and systems get confused. Good Power Quality simply means that the interaction between the power grid and your installation is optimal, with no contamination to disrupt your processes.

How do you recognise poor Power Quality in your business?

Power quality problems rarely announce themselves with a major alarm. It is a creeping process. Often, the first thought is "dumb luck", a production fault in a machine or a problem with the power supplier. But when incidents become structural, the cause is almost always internal.

Do you recognise one or more of the following signs within your building or plant?

  • Unexplained failures: Machines, PLCs or computers that spontaneously fail or reset for no apparent reason. This often happens at random moments.
  • Faulty electronics: Printed circuit boards, server power supplies or motors that break down much earlier than the technical lifespan dictates.
  • Heat generation: cables, distributors or transformers that become extremely hot, vibrate or hum, even when not fully loaded.
  • High energy bill: You pay for energy that you do not use effectively (reactive power), or you are fined by the grid operator for grid pollution.
  • Failure of protection devices: Circuit breakers or earth leakage switches that jump out (trip) when there appears to be no direct short circuit.

Are you ignoring these signals? Then the risk of unplanned downtime, fire risk and high replacement costs increases day by day. Timely diagnosis gives you back control.

Why is Power Quality an issue right now?

You may be thinking, "We never used to suffer from this, did we?" That's right. The landscape of our energy supply has changed radically in 20 years. We are in the middle of a paradox: the technology that helps us become more sustainable is often also the source of new challenges.

Modern electronics

1. The impact of modern electronics
Electrical installations used to be linear and robust. Today, every piece of equipment is packed with smart electronics. Think of variable speed drives to make motors run more economically, LED lighting and huge server farms. These devices do not use the power in a nice wave, but 'chop' the power into pieces at lightning speed. This causes harmonic pollution - similar to noise on a radio line.

Aerial view of solar panels

2. The energy transition in your meter box
We are also increasingly generating our own energy and electrifying our vehicle fleet.

  • Charging stations (EV): Charging electric cars requires a lot of power and is a heavy, non-linear load on your internal grid.

Business risks are real

Poor Power Quality is not a technical detail for the margin. It is a direct risk to your business continuity:

  • Financial impact: What does one hour of downtime cost for your production line or data centre? The cost of downtime quickly runs into tens of thousands of euros.
  • Safety & Liability: Overheating due to harmonics is a real fire risk. As an installation manager, you must comply with strict standards (such as NEN 1010 and NEN 3140) to ensure the safety of your people.

Your installation healthy again: The HyTEPS approach

At HyTEPS, we do not believe in "you ask, we turn" when it comes to complex energy issues. We see ourselves as the specialist doctor for your electrical installation. Just as a surgeon does not operate without X-rays, we do not install filters or capacitor banks without knowing exactly what is involved.

Engineer Measuring

Measurement and Analysis (The Diagnosis)

Our engineers come to your site for a thorough Power Quality Analysis. We connect high-end measuring equipment that records the 'heartbeat' of your installation. Whereas standard meters only take a snapshot, we use equipment that captures every detail via 'continuous waveform recording'. We often monitor over a period of one or two weeks to identify all patterns, peaks and troughs.

Simulation and Modelling (The Treatment Plan)

With the data collected, we get to work. We use advanced software to digitally recreate your installation (Digital Twin). Here, we simulate solutions before implementing them. What happens if we install an active filter? What will be the effect if you install ten extra charging stations next year? By simulating, we eliminate guesswork. You get a solution whose operation is mathematically substantiated.

Engineers view Simulation and Modelling
HyTEPS Engineer Commissioning

Solving and improving (The Cure)

Based on the diagnosis and simulation, we present the optimal solution. This can be technical advice on the design of your installation, or the implementation of hardware such as Active Harmonic Filters or HyTEPS capacitor banks. We supervise the installation, commissioning and validate afterwards with a new measurement whether the problem has actually been solved.

Proven results in critical sectors

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Frequently asked questions about Power Quality

Answer:

Only partly. The grid operator is responsible for the quality up to your meter. Any contamination created behind the meter - by your own equipment, machinery or cabling - falls under your own responsibility as an installation owner.

Answer:

Yes. Without measurement, you are guessing; you do not know whether your capacity problem is due to actual consumption or pollution. A measurement prevents you from investing in the wrong solutions (such as an overweight battery).

Answer:

Yes, absolutely. Poor Power Quality, such as high levels of reactive current or harmonic contamination, causes additional energy losses in your cables and transformers (heat). By optimising this, you reduce your energy bills and relieve the burden on the installation, which leaves room for expansion.

Answer:

a. Removing contamination such as reactive power and harmonics eliminates the 'polluted' current that unnecessarily loads your cables. This creates physical space on your current connection for more IT equipment.

Answer:

Simple measurements (such as voltage and current) can be done by yourself. However, correct Power Quality diagnosis requires specialised equipment that also records millisecond spikes and complex waveforms. Correctly interpreting this data requires in-depth knowledge of the subject matter.

Answer:

You can think of harmonics as 'noise' or contamination on your power grid. They are frequencies that deviate from the standard 50Hz. They are caused by non-linear devices (such as LED, computers, variable speed drives). Too many harmonics lead to overheating, malfunctions and accelerated equipment wear.

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:

Poor Power Quality often leads to transformer overheating, unexplained PLC failures and premature failure of capacitor banks. This directly results in unplanned downtime and safety risks.

Answer:

This cannot be said without measurement. There are specific standards such as EN 50160 (for the voltage you receive) and the IEC 61000 series (for device compatibility). HyTEPS can test your situation against these standards to eliminate risks and liability issues.

Choose security and continuity

Don't leave your organisation's operational reliability to chance. Power quality problems do not solve themselves; they get worse as you add more modern equipment. However, the solution starts with a simple step: understanding.

We are happy to take responsibility for your Power Quality issues, from problem definition to solution. So that you have the certainty that your processes keep running. Would you like to know how your electrical installation is really doing? Or do you have an acute problem that needs to be solved?