What role does power quality play in the operation of substations?

Power quality is essential in the operation of substations as it directly influences the integrity and reliability of power delivery. High-quality power minimizes issues such as voltage sags, swells, harmonics, and transients, which can lead to disruptions in the electrical supply and negatively impact both utility operations and end-user equipment. When power quality is maintained, substations can operate efficiently, providing a consistent and reliable supply of electricity to consumers and industrial users, which is crucial for the overall stability of the power grid.

If power quality is compromised, it can result in equipment malfunction, increased maintenance costs, and reduced lifespan of electrical devices, all of which can lead to downtime and service interruptions. Therefore, monitoring and managing power quality is a fundamental aspect of substation operations to ensure that the delivery of electric power meets the required standards and supports the operational demands of the connected systems.