A new heuristic approach for assessing losses in power distribution system

Abstract

Among the three main components of the power system: generation, transmission and distribution, most pressing problem in the power sector has been with the distribution system. It is well conceived that almost all the revenue stream comes from distribution system. If this section is characterized with high system loss resulting poor revenue collection, then the toal power system tends to collapse. So, for financial viability of the sector, it is vital that the distribution sector should be taken care of. So, it is vital that serious efforts should be taken to bring the system loss to a standard level. It is acknowledged that in quantifying the standard loss of distribution system is not as easy as it has many complex calculations due to wide range of system variables. Considering the urgency to find the loss quantity against the various contrast, a model tool has been devised following heuristic process in this thesis. It is anticipated that in finding distribution loss an expensive software with expertise are required. The software needs huge system data for identification and quantification of losses. This is also time consuming. To get the required job done, a device is required to monitor the system in finding out the accurate quantity of loss. The thesis is aimed to develop how to find losses of both feeder and transformer by one item only that is current of low voltage side of the transformer. The fundamental concept which is considered is that maximum system load flow is 1/3 of the feeder length. Such consideration of load flow might deviate the actual expected result. This deviation needs a tool to be used to rationalize the calculated result. The tool which has been devised in this thesis is termed as “K” factor. “K” factor is the main part of this thesis. The value of “K” depends on load ratio of feeder when each feeder is divided in two halves. It is known that loss varies in the feeder with same value of load if the load ratio varies between 1st half and 2nd half. As per load ratio, “K” is higher, if load in 2nd half is greater than load in 1st half. It is equal, if load in 2nd half is equal to load in 1st half and lower, if load in 2nd half is less than load in 1st half.