Network Reconfiguration for Power Loss Reduction in Distribution System

Abstract

Distribution utilities in Pakistan are suffering from high power losses. High technical losses and electricity theft not only affect performance of a distribution losses but add to already existing demand supply gap. Electricity consumers are affected from these scenarios. High electricity tariff, long duration load shedding and unplanned frequent supply trappings are being faced by electricity consumers. Network reconfiguration refers to change in existing system structure to enhance its performance by changing circuit parameters. In this paper, one of the distribution feeder in Hyderabad is selected for analysis of power loss reduction using network reconfiguration. An efficient network reconfiguration technique is proposed based on conversion of low voltage lines to high voltage lines. Existing transformers are replaced with two or more transformers with smaller capacities. Proposed reconfiguration technique reduce current flows and eliminates chances of direct connections from low voltage lines. Simulation of existing and proposed systems is performed using Power System Simulator, Siemens Network Calculator (PSS SINCAL) software. Results are analyzed for bus voltages and power loss reduction. Effectiveness of the proposed reconfiguration technique is confirmed through simulation results.