Optimal Harmonic Passive Filters for Power Factor Correction, Harmonic Mitigation and Electricity Bill Reduction Using Dragonfly Algorithm

Abstract

One of the common techniques for harmonics mitigation in heavy industrial applications is the use of C-type passive filters. Besides, their applicability in power distribution systems is growing. Although single-tuned passive filters are more dominant in industrial applications, their usage is declining in front of C-type filters, particularly from the perspective of utilities or operators. The main reasons are the resonance damping capabilities offered by the C-type filters and the reduced voltage distortion and power losses they can guarantee. In this paper, an optimal design of C–type filter is presented based on maximization of the total saved cash to recoup the filter investment funds to reduce the annual electricity bill, improve the power factor and mitigate harmonic distortion in distribution systems supplying nonlinear loads. A recent swarming search algorithm based on the behavior of dragonflies, known as Dragonfly Algorithm is used for solving the problem. The economic assessment is based on the latest Egyptian energy tariff. The results show that the proposed filter considerably enhances the power quality performance of the system and reduces the annual electricity bill.