Harmonic studies are normally performed to determine harmonic distortion levels and filtering requirements within a facility and to evaluate if harmonic voltages and currents are at acceptable levels. The recent development in technology is leading to high penetration of non-linear loads into the power systems. The non-linear loads lead to power quality problems in the power system due to the non-linear nature of the loads. The characteristic harmonic emissions of these non-linear equipment must be identified, studied and rectified with corrective measures to save on power consumption costs and meet the utility standards. This is where the use of a power quality study becomes imperative, as it can be critical in reducing the facility downtime and enhancing productivity.

With the growing proliferation of nonlinear loads in commercial buildings and industrial plants, which might become 30% to 50% of the total load, the effects of harmonics within the system and their impact on the utility and neighbouring loads needs to be examined before any penalty is levied, equipment is damaged, or production is lost.