Efficient Load Flow Techniques Based on Holomorphic Embedding for Distribution Networks

Abstract: The Holomorphic Embedding Load flow Method (HELM) employs complex analysis to solve the load flow problem. It guarantees finding the correct solution when it exists, and identifying when a solution does not exist. The method, however, is usually computationally less efficient than the traditional Newton-Raphson algorithm, which is generally considered to be a slow method in distribution networks. In this paper, we present two HELM modifications that exploit the radial and weakly meshed topology of distribution networks and significantly reduce computation time relative to the original HELM implementation. We also present comparisons with several popular load flow algorithms applied to various test distribution networks.