Energy meter behaviour under non-sinusoidal conditions

Abstract

Currently, there are two energy meters types installed: electromechanicals and electronics. The first ones are still the most frequent. However, new facilities tend to use electronics energy meters based on solid-state technology. Electromechanicals devices present characteristics already well known that allows us to measure only energy consumption. However, now the rules that manage the energy supply are totally new, there is a competitive electricity market. This way, detailed information on the energy consumption of each client is needed. In this point, electronic meters seem to be the best option to face the new challenges. This study will review the operating principles of solid-state energy meters. The behavior of some three phases models under nonsinusoidal conditions is studied. Experimental setup and test methodology are discussed as well.