Analysis of Power Disturbances and Voltage Imbalances in a City in Nigeria

Abstract

Investigation of power quality and the impact is necessary for source mitigation and effect attenuation. An analytical study of the electric power system, including data collection and processing on power disturbances and voltage imbalances at various household end-user points, was carried out in Wukari, Nigeria. The range of power disturbances and voltage imbalances at various end-user points were all factored into the experimental design. Subjective and objective approaches were adopted in the data collection using reliable and validated standard devices. The quantitative data analyzed showed power disturbances through abnormal voltage signals and outages. The technical implications resulted in residences' adoption of phase-to-phase connections to the national grid to meet voltage problems at peak load hours, which raised the voltage to an unusable intensity with a high tendency for electrical/electronic gadget damage. This effect challenges sourcing an alternative means of power supply in the metropolis. This study concluded that mitigation techniques are imperative from the national grid supply source and the household users' points.