Fast and Flexible Load Flow Solution for Balanced and Unbalanced Radial Distribution System

The power distribution network connects the high-power transmission network to the end-users and thus plays an important role in the power system. The distribution system must be properly planned and operated in order to efficiently transfer power from the generator to the load end. As a result, load flow is a critical requirement for distribution system planning. This article proposes a fast flexible load flow (FFLF) solution for the radial distribution. The introduction of the radial configuration matrix (RCM) with the direct forward sweep method (DFSM) makes the fast flexible load flow method for radial distribution unique. The direct forward sweep method helps to reduce the number of iterations and calculation steps. Furthermore, the radial configuration matrix and simple bus numbering allow for the flexibility to adapt to any changes in the structure of the radial distribution networks, which is difficult with other methods. The proposed FFLF method can also be applied to the different practical loading conditions without forming a complex voltage equation. The proposed FFLF algorithm is tested on both balanced and unbalanced radial distribution systems and validated using IEEE standard test feeders.