Power Flow Analysis in Unbalanced Distribution Networks Considering High Photovoltaic Production

This research paper proposes an advanced method for Power Flow Analysis (PFA) in unbalanced distribution networks considering high Renewable Energy Sources (RES) penetration with special attention to technical and environmental Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). The innovation of the proposed unbalanced power flow algorithm lies on the tree-like approach of the unbalanced network with the use of Backward/Forward Sweep (BFS) methods, which renders the algorithm significantly faster than the usual methodologies. The PFA is applied on the unbalanced IEEE-13 node test feeder including two-axis tracking Photovoltaics (PV) for three different load profiles, i.e., commercial, residential and mixed, for one representative day of the year. The aforementioned cases are compared to each other in terms of voltage deviation, distribution losses, self-consumption, emissions and reverse power flow. Finally, sensitivity analysis is carried out in order to highlight the effect of RES production on the unbalanced distribution network.