Load Flow Analysis and the Impact of a Solar PV Generator in a Radial Distribution Network

Abstract

The distribution system acts as a conduit between the consumer and the bulk power grid. Due to characteristics such as a high resistance/reactance ratio, distribution networks cannot be solved using conventional methods, such as the Gauss-Seidel and Newton–Raphson. This research proposes a method for the calculation of the power flow in radial networks that considers their wide range of resistance and reactance values, PV generator characteristics, and radial structure. An iterative methodology is employed, with each iteration beginning with the branch that has the highest accurate power flow solution. The procedure is reliable and effective over various workloads and network configurations. To confirm the effectiveness of the suggested technique on the simple and IEEE 33-bus radial distribution system, simulations were carried out in MATLAB. The implications of including a renewable energy source, such as a PV generator, in the network under consideration are investigated by simulation result comparison. The optimal location of the PV generator was also determined using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) controller. The results of the identification process improve the already exceptional efficacy and performance of the ANN controller.