Power losses estimation in harmonic polluted LV distribution networks with a fuzzy approach

Abstract

The paper investigates the power losses for real distribution networks in harmonic polluted state. Actually, the low voltage (LV) distribution networks supply a significant number of nonlinear consumers which causes a distorted and unbalanced state. A negative effect of these states is represented by the increase of power losses in distribution network elements. Even if the symmetrical sinusoidal state is initially considered for the power losses, in reality this often leads to power lines overloading, especially for the neutral. The method for power losses estimation in LV distribution network in harmonic polluted environment is very difficult to use. The aim of this paper is to present a reasonably accurate approach to evaluate the effects of harmonic currents on power losses for LV distribution networks using fuzzy techniques. Moreover, to highlight the proposed methodology, a study case for a real low voltage distribution network in order to compute the additional power losses due to the distorted state is provided.