Distribution power flow method based on a real quasi-symmetric matrix

► We present a new method to solve electric distribution systems. ► We apply a load flow method based upon a unique global matrix. ► The method improves the traditional backward/forward Sweep algorithm. ► Solution is reached using a real matrix that can be easily exchanged. ► Results show better performances respect to previous contributions. This paper presents a new load flow formulation to solve active and passive electric distribution networks. The fundamental idea discussed here is how to obtain the power flow solution by using the elements of a unique quasi-symmetric matrix called TRX in the iterative process. The method is formulated for single-phase balanced and three-phase unbalanced radially operated networks. It works with real variables as opposed to complex variables used in previous backward/forward sweep algorithms discussed in literature. The proposed TRX matrix constitutes a complete database by including information of network topology structure as well as branch impedances of the distribution feeder. Data arrangement is suitable to be exchanged under standard Common Information Model (CIM) under Distribution Management Systems (DMS) environment allowing an efficient computation of the state of the system for on-line and off-line study applications. The proposed methodology was applied on a group of IEEE test systems and a real distribution system of 49,000 nodes.