Learning Load Flow Analysis in Electric Power Systems: A Case Study in PowerFactory

Abstract

The integration of distributed generation into networks, together with the high variable renewable energy penetration levels, is making current power systems to experience a complex transformation. Under this framework, load flow analyses are required not only to know the operating point of an electrical grid at any given time, but also to plan network operations effectively, conduct contingency analyses and design future expansions. Moreover, load flows constitute the necessary preliminary step to the execution of dynamic simulation analyses. On the other hand, among the software tools used for the conduction of load flow analysis, DIgSILENT PowerFactory (PF) is used in the present paper, since it is one of the most powerful power system analysis packages in the field of electrical engineering. Moreover, it is a tool widely used by network operators and other stakeholders in the electricity sector. Therefore, given the importance of conducting load flow analysis, the present work implements a test network using PF and analyzes its operating point. Our contribution is intended to bring this power system analysis software tool to students, who will be the engineers of the future, and to all researchers, professors or professionals who are not familiar with this commercial tool and have an interest in learning it, thus complementing their competences. Finally, it should also be noted that the test case proposed can be easily replicated at other academic institutions, and that a specific section on the experience of the authors as professors using this software as an educational tool has been included.