Load flow analysis of MEA's distribution system

Abstract

The aim of the study was to find out if, by using the SIMPOW software package, it is possible to create a practical power flow model of the MEA 400V meshed distribution system. The basic problem is that the amount of the measurement needed for a proper load flow calculation normally is not available on this voltage level. A large proportion of node variables have to be estimated and the resulting network model must be tuned by using specially obtained line current measurements. The answer to this basic question seems to be “yes” in such a sense that the model can be used to examine load increase possibilities and in addition even overload situations in case of certain outages. It is by no means a perfect tool but allow the network engineer to receive some guidance in the planning process. In the studied network (the base case) load can be increased at selected nodes (nod 13507, node 30, node 21509 and node 125 25) about 30-110% from the original load. However when the first contingency occurs (any one feeder out of operation) possible load increase is reduced to about 3-30% from the base case. When the seconed contingency occurs (any two feeders simultaneously out of operation) the load increase is further reduced to about 3-15%. The reason for the reduction is that the load flow analysis showed some line overload and some transformer overload.