
Local partner: CP Automation
Industry: Renewable Energy
Location: UK
Timeline: 2023
Background
A renewable energy plant in the UK embarked on a significant upgrade to improve operational reliability and efficiency. The project’s primary objectives were to minimize harmonic noise caused by non-linear loads and establish a dependable backup power system. Both measures were essential to safeguard equipment, ensure compliance with power quality standards, and maintain continuous operations.
A leading control systems supplier secured the tender but recognized the need for specialized expertise to tackle these power quality challenges. To meet the plant’s specific requirements, they partnered with CP Automation, our trusted partner in the UK, to deliver a tailored solution.
Challenge
The plant's infrastructure included variable speed drives (VSDs) and transformers, which are common sources of harmonic distortion. Harmonic noise can reduce equipment performance, shorten the lifespan of components, and lead to inefficiencies in energy usage. The main challenge was to mitigate harmonic distortion to maintain power quality and meet compliance requirements. Additionally, the plant required a reliable backup power system to ensure that critical operations could continue without interruption during potential mains outages.
These challenges demanded an integrated solution to support the plant’s operational and sustainability goals.
Solution
CP Automation addressed these challenges with a tailored approach. To tackle harmonic distortion, six Comsys ADF P300 active harmonic filters were installed across the plant. These filters actively cancel out harmonic noise by injecting counter-signals, protecting transformers and ensuring the efficient operation of connected equipment. The filters improved the overall stability and reliability of the plant’s power supply.
To ensure continuity of critical operations during power outages, CP Automation installed two uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems. These systems provided instant backup power to essential processes, including fuel handling, conveyor systems, and boiler control units, ensuring that operations could continue uninterrupted even during unexpected mains disruptions.


Results

The installation of Comsys ADF P300 filters and UPS systems delivered immediate and long-lasting benefits. Harmonic distortion levels were reduced to within acceptable limits, protecting the transformers and extending the lifespan of electrical equipment. This improvement in power quality also ensured compliance with industry standards. Meanwhile, the UPS systems safeguarded critical processes by providing seamless backup power, enhancing the plant’s overall resilience and minimizing downtime.
By safeguarding equipment and ensuring uninterrupted operations, the project demonstrated how targeted power quality solutions can drive efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and support sustainable energy production. The plant is now well-equipped to maintain continuous energy flow, reinforcing its role as a reliable contributor to renewable energy generation.
ADF P300
The ADF P300 is the ideal active filter for small and medium size commercial and industrial loads. It is a powerhouse solution and the best choice for most applications because it is such a general purpose active filter.
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Dynamic VAR compensation
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Harmonic elimination
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Flicker compensation
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Resonance elimination
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Load balancing
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Simple installation
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Modular and scalable design