An efficient iterative method for load-flow solution in radial distribution networks

In this paper, an efficient method for radial distribution networks solution is proposed. The efficiency of the presented strategy makes it suitable for distribution automation applications. The method is based on an iterative algorithm with some special procedures to increase the convergence speed; the bus voltages are considered as state variables according to approaches that are common in literature. After the presentation of the general problem and of the state of the art on the subject, the proposed methodology is treated in detail. It uses a simple matrix representation for the network topology and branch current flows management. The method has been applied to some test systems already used in literature so as to put into evidence its properties mostly in terms of calculation times reduction. The obtained results confirm that it outperforms other solution methods for radial networks