Variance-Based Energy Loss Computation in Low Voltage Distribution Networks

This paper describes a method for calculating energy losses in any system element assuming that the transmitted energy across it is known. The method identifies two components of losses: load variance and load mean. The load variance component can be neglected for large loads, but it is significant for small loads, which are dominant in low voltage networks. Needed parameters for loss calculation are determined by two load duration curves (LDCs) per load type. The formulae for loss calculation in transformers and distribution lines of various phase systems are given, including the formulae for energy losses and average current in the neutral conductor. A new algorithm for voltage calculation at network nodes is proposed and shown to provide high accuracy of calculated losses. The method enables loss calculation for compounded (nonhomogeneous) loads and gives the exact relationship between traditional loss factor and the load factor.