Optimal Power Flow in Four-Wire Distribution Networks: Formulation and Benchmarking

Sander Claeys; Frederik Geth; Geert Deconinck

doi:10.1016/j.epsr.2022.108522

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arXiv · 2204.08126

Optimal Power Flow in Four-Wire Distribution Networks: Formulation and Benchmarking

Sander Claeys·Frederik Geth·Geert Deconinck

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Abstract

In recent years, several applications have been proposed in the context of distribution networks. Many of these can be formulated as an optimal power flow problem, a mathematical optimization program which includes a model of the steady-state physics of the electricity network. If the network loading is balanced and the lines are transposed, the network model can be simplified to a single-phase equivalent model. However, these assumptions do not apply to low-voltage distribution networks, so the network model should model the effects of phase unbalance correctly. In many parts of the world, the low-voltage distribution network has four conductors, i.e. three phases and a neutral. This paper develops OPF formulations for such networks, including transformers, shunts and voltage-dependent loads, in two variable spaces, i.e. current-voltage and power-voltage, and compares them for robustness and scalability. A case study across 128 low-voltage networks also quantifies the modelling error introduced by Kron reductions and its impact on the solve time. This work highlights the advantages of formulations in current-voltage variables over power-voltage, for four-wire networks.

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Sander Claeys, Frederik Geth, Geert Deconinck. 2022-04-18. Optimal Power Flow in Four-Wire Distribution Networks: Formulation and Benchmarking. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.epsr.2022.108522

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