Effects of Compact Fluorescence Light (Cfl) Bulbs on Power Quality

Abstract

In recent time, the power quality has attracted a lot of attention due to extensive emphasis by power utility on the power system efficiency and end users awareness of power quality issues. This has occurred mainly due to the sensitivity of the modern equipment and the deregulation of the power distribution. In addition, there are usually massive losses both to power utility and end users due to poor power quality supplies which fall below the set standards. Power quality primarily consists of voltage dip/ swell, power system interruptions, harmonic distortions, voltage flickers and frequency deviations.  This study looks at effect of CFL bulbs on power system in relation to harmonic distortions and low power factor inherently associated by CFL. It has established that the bulbs generate substantial harmonic distortions and leading power factor. Combination of incandescent and CFL bulbs in one circuit was noted to improves the power quality.

Keywords: CFL bulb, Harmonic distortion, Power factor, Reactive power