The voltage distortion in low-voltage networks caused by compact fluorescent lamps with electronic gear

Commonly used compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) with electronic gear are characterized by extremely distorted current, with total harmonic distortion (THD) usually exceeding 100%. That is why they cause a significant voltage distortion in electrical installations. The principal goal of this research was to determine their maximum permissible share in the total load installed for commercial customers, at which voltage distortion is still acceptable (according to international standards). An analysis regarding a low-voltage electrical installation of a hotel, representing a typical commercial customer, showed that maximum permissible share should not exceed 10%. As this maximum permissible share could restrict the installment of the intended quantity of CFLs, the costs of two possible solutions for this problem - the use of filters or a new generation of CFLs with a high power factor - are compared.