A manufacturing plant is connected to an 11 kV distribution feeder. Recently, the plant expanded and added several large induction motors and variable frequency drives (VFDs).

After expansion, the utility observes:

• Voltage at the plant bus drops from 11 kV to 10.2 kV during peak load.

• Power factor reduced from 0.95 lagging to 0.78 lagging.

• Frequent tripping of capacitor banks.

• Increased feeder losses and overheating complaints.

❓ Consulting Question

As a power system consultant:

1. What technical issues are likely causing the voltage drop?

2. Why are capacitor banks tripping after adding VFD loads?

3. What studies would you perform before recommending a solution?

4. What practical solutions would you propose to improve voltage profile and power factor?