Harmonic Emission Limit Allocation Using VDE AR-N 4130: Application and Adaptation of Experiences from IEC TR 61000-3-6

Increased installation of power cables and the intensified roll-out of power electronic equipment in the extra high voltage level pose challenges for network operators to assess network perturbations and power quality issues. In order to regulate harmonic levels in electric networks, grid operators are required to assign harmonic emission limits to the grid connection users. This ensures the compliance with the compatibility levels of the transmission grid. In this paper, the allocation procedure of harmonic current limits according to the novel German application rule VDE AR-N 4130 is compared with the approach from technical guideline IEC TR 61000-3-6. Key differences between both approaches are detected and presented on the basis of a case study. A restrictive component formulated in IEC method is elaborated, which is decisive for the differences occurring. Based on this finding, an adaptation of the allocation principle according to VDE is proposed. This adaptation enhances the allocation of comparable harmonic current emission limits.