Assessing approaches to modeling voltage magnitude measurements in state estimators devoted to active distribution networks

Abstract

The adoption of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) changes the way distribution systems are managed. While DER provides flexibility, they increase operational challenges. In this context, the Active Distribution Networks (ADNs) rise, creating a suitable environment and the need for the massive adoption of the so-called Distribution System State Estimators (DSSEs). Noticeable efforts can be identified in the literature aiming at the maturation of the state estimators devoted to distribution systems, namely, the Admittance Matrix Based-State Estimator (AMB-SE) and the Branch Current Based-State Estimator (BCB-SE). For sure, one the biggest challenges faced by these state estimators is related the modeling of the voltage magnitude measurements. This paper presents a comprehensive comparison of the approaches available to modeling voltage magnitude measurements in DSSEs. Aspects regarding computational implementation, convergence, performance, and accuracy of the DSSEs in the presence of the three voltage magnitude approaches were assessed and discussed. Original findings observed due to the adequately designed simulations, assist the choice for the more suitable approach. Results clearly show that the proper choice of the approach to modeling voltage magnitude measurements makes the DSSEs as accurate and numerically robust as the widely accepted Traditional State Estimator (TSE), whereas they perform significantly better and are easier to implement. This can help to leverage these estimators and make them widely accepted.