Fast decoupled power flow for unbalanced radial distribution systems

This paper presents a novel power flow formulation and an effective solution method for general unbalanced radial distribution systems. Comprehensive models are considered including lines, switches, transformers, shunt capacitors, cogenerators, and several types of loads. A new problem formulation of three-phase distribution power flow equations taking into account the radial structure of the distribution network is presented. A distinguishing feature of the new problem formulation is that it significantly reduces the number of power flow equations, as compared with the conventional formulation. The numerical properties as well as the structural properties of distribution systems are exploited resulting in a fast decoupled solution algorithm. The proposed solution algorithm is evaluated on three-phase unbalanced 292-bus and 394-bus test systems with very promising results.