An Online Feedback-Based Linearized Power Flow Model for Unbalanced Distribution Networks

Abstract: The non-linearity and non-convexity of power flow models and the phase coupling challenge the analysis and optimization of unbalanced distribution networks. To tackle the challenges, this paper proposes an online feedback-based linearized power flow model for unbalanced distribution networks with both wye-connected and delta-connected loads. The online feedback-based linearized model is grounded on the first-order Taylor expansion of the branch flow model, and updates the model parameters via online feedback by leveraging the instantaneous measured voltages and load consumption at the previous time step. Its closed-loop nature can asymptotically mitigate the model mismatch, thus lending itself to a good performance. In addition, exploiting the connection structure of unbalanced radial distribution networks, we provide a unified matrix-vector compact form of the proposed linearized power flow model. Finally, the numerical tests on the IEEE 123-bus test system validate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed model. A simple optimal power flow case is also provided to illustrate the application of the online feedback-based linearized model.