Impact of advanced power semiconductor systems on utilities and industry

The impact that power semiconductors and power conditioning and control (PCC) systems might have on national electrical energy consumption is evaluated. Advanced PCC systems are being incorporated into ac motor drives, lamp ballasts, switching power supplies, and controls for home applicances. Substantial system efficiency improvements are realized when the appropriate PCC system is applied to an existing inefficient process. Three generic PCC systems were identified as having sufficient economic incentives to affect national electrical energy consumption because of their inherent conservation potential. While the potential benefits appear attractive, harmonic currents/voltage, low power factors, and electromagnetic interference generated by PCC systems can lead to a degradation in the present quality of grid power.