This paper maps the expected and possible adverse consequences for power quality of introducing several smart distribution-grid technologies and applications. The material presented in this paper is the result of discussions in an international CIGRE-CIRED joint working group. The following technologies and applications are discussed: 1) microgrids; 2) advanced voltage control; 3) feeder reconfiguration; and 4) demand-side management. Recommendations are given based on the mapping.

After a brief historical introduction to the hosting-capacity approach, the hosting capacity is presented in this paper as a tool for distribution-system planning under uncertainty. This tool is illustrated by evaluating the readiness of two low-voltage networks for increasing amounts of customers with PV panels or with EV chargers. Both undervoltage and overvoltage are considered in the studies presented here. Probability distribution functions are calculated for the worst-case overvoltage and undervoltage as a function of the number of customers with PV or EV chargers. These distributions are used to obtain 90th percentile values that act as a performance index. This index is compared with an overvoltage or undervoltage limit to get the hosting capacity. General aspects of the hosting-capacity calculations (performance indices, limits, and calculation methods) are discussed for a number of other phenomena: overcurrent; fast voltage magnitude variations; voltage unbalance; harmonics and supraharmonics. The need for gathering data and further development of models for existing demand is emphasised in the discussion and conclusions.

There is a serious interest from the international standard-setting community in knowledge about voltage and current distortion in the frequency range 2 to 150 kHz, referred to as supraharmonics. At the same time, research is ongoing at a number of locations, but the knowledge about supraharmonics remains limited. This paper compares some of the properties of harmonics and supraharmonics. An increase in supraharmonics for individual devices is observed in association with a decrease in harmonic emission (i.e. below 2 kHz). A proposal is made for setting limits in this frequency range. The proposal is based on existing standards and is meant to be for discussion. The authors strongly encourage an open discussion about the proposed limits. There are a number of differences between harmonics and supraharmonics that are not covered by the proposed set of limits. A substantial amount of further research is needed to extend the standard framework for supraharmonics such that this can be covered by standards.

This paper presents different methods to describe voltage and current distortion in the frequency range 2 to 150 kHz. The time-frequency domain was shown to give additional information next to the time- and frequency-domain representations. Measurements of different devices and at different locations showed remnants of the switching frequency of the power electronics as well as lower frequency oscillations around the current zero crossing to be present in voltage and current. The voltage distortion is shown to vary a lot during the day and between locations.