Multi-voltage level distributed backward–forward sweep power flow algorithm in an agent-based discrete-event simulation framework

Abstract

In the energy transition context, the use of steady-state time series is a promising approach to account for temporal interdependencies and flexibilities in modern distribution power system analysis, planning, and operation processes. This paper proposes a distributed backward–forward sweep power flow algorithm executed in a discrete-event, agent-based simulation framework. The algorithm shows fast convergence, allows for concurrent execution, and scales up to large-scale multi-voltage level grids with arbitrary topology. An agent-based simulation model integrates the developed algorithm to generate detailed grid utilization, asset, and system participant time series. We demonstrate the capabilities of our approach by performing several simulations, leveraging the proposed algorithm, on nine different benchmark grid models. The selected models comprise grids at a single voltage level, medium voltage level, and combined multi-voltage levels. The evaluation of the numerical results validates the approach and demonstrates its capabilities.