A Sensitivity-Based Three-Phase Weather-Dependent Power Flow Algorithm for Networks with Local Voltage Controllers

Local voltage controllers (LVCs) are important components of a modern distribution system for regulating the voltage within permissible limits. This manuscript presents a sensitivity-based three-phase weather-dependent power flow algorithm for distribution networks with LVCs. More specifically, the proposed algorithm has four distinct characteristics: (a) it considers the three-phase unbalanced nature of distribution systems, (b) the operating state of LVCs is calculated using sensitivity parameters having accelerated convergence, (c) it considers the precise switching sequence of LVCs based on their reaction time delays, and (d) the nonlinear influence of weather variations in the power flow is also taken into consideration. Simulations and validation results presented indicate that the proposed approach outperforms other existing algorithms with respect to the accuracy and speed of convergence, thus making it a promising power flow tool for accurate distribution system analysis.