Emerging power quality improvement technology: Recent advances on topologies, control schemes, issues and prospects towards grid decarbonization

Carbon emissions are the main driver of environmental pollution, necessitating urgent solutions. Addressing this issue requires developing efficient and cost-effective energy stability while preventing any rise in emissions. Innovation in technology is essential to accomplishing this objective. Power electronic technologies are extensively used to connect renewable energy sources to the grid reliably and efficiently, aiding in system control and grid decarbonization. However, the high penetration of renewable energy into the grid can lead to serious issues, including power quality deterioration. As a result, the global energy industry is increasingly implementing power quality improvement technology (PQIT) in large-scale renewable energy plants and grid systems to address these challenges. Yet, this transition introduces new challenges and issues. While there have been numerous reviews on PQIT, there is currently no comprehensive review addressing the configurations and energy management schemes of PQIT in the context of renewable integrations and grid decarbonization. To fill this gap, this manuscript presents an in-depth review of state-of-the-art PQITs, including structural analysis, model development, key findings, research gaps, and their applications in grid integration and decarbonization. This review specifically investigates how various PQIT structural configurations and control algorithms contribute to decarbonization targets. By mapping each technology’s operational role to key decarbonization outcomes, such as reduced emissions, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced renewable integration, the paper establishes a structured connection between technical developments in PQIT and their impact on grid sustainability. The overall discussion, analysis, identification of concerns, and recommendations aim to provide engineers, industries, and stakeholders with insightful information and suggestions for further research regarding the emerging possibilities of PQITs in grid decarbonization.