Power values and harmonics

Active power

The active power P of a signal comprising harmonics is the sum of the active powers resulting from the currents and voltages of the same order.

Reactive power

Reactive power is defined exclusively in terms of the fundamental, i.e.
[math]\displaystyle{ Q=U1 \times I1 \times Sin \phi 1 }[/math]

Distortion power

When harmonics are present, the distortion power D is defined as
[math]\displaystyle{ D= \left(S^2 - P^2 -Q^2 \right)^{1/2} }[/math]where S is the apparent power.