This paper introduces a control strategy for the assessment of SAPF (shunt active power filters) role in the electrical power networks. The proposed control scheme is based on the Lyapunov control theory and defines a stable operating region for the interfaced converter during the integration time with the utility grid. The compensation of instantaneous variations of reference current components in the control loop of SAPF in ac-side, and dc-link voltage oscillations in dc-side of the proposed model, is thoroughly considered in the stable operation of interfaced converter, which is the main contribution of this proposal in comparison with other potential control approaches. The proposed control scheme can guarantee the injection of all harmonic components of current and reactive power of grid-connected loads, with a fast dynamic response that results in a unity power factor between the grid currents and voltages during the integration of SAPF into the power grid. An extensive simulation study is performed, assessing the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy in the utilization of SAPF in power networks. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.