Parallel power flow calculation in electric distribution networks

This paper develops a parallel method for fast distribution power flow studies using multi-processors. The method belongs to the class of coarse-grain and exhibits good convergence characteristic over wide range of r/x ratio of distribution lines. The method can be applied to radial distribution systems. It uses only active and reactive power injections at the main feeder and at laterals as state variables; thus reducing the number of state variables. Radial distribution networks are mapped into the tree structure of multi-processor system for allocating each node to processes. Forward/backward sweep approach is realized by communication between the root processor and leaf processors. The proposed method is evaluated on various distribution systems with promising results.