Steady state modeling of custom power components in power distribution networks

Utilities have traditionally carried out power flow and fault current calculations in their distribution network for monitoring and planning purposes. The network is controlled and operated as a complete system. Network information systems (AM/FM-GIS) and different distribution management systems (DMS, SCADA) are the most common software platforms used for completing the task. The calculations are performed in steady state. Solid-state and energy storage based power conditioners, i.e. custom power devices introduce a new generation of active components in the network. To be able to control and operate the network also the new components have to be modeled for steady state simulation and furthermore implemented in the established applications. The models provide the utility software with proper tools for the network power flow, harmonic power flow and energy now calculations. Also new tools for power quality management can be developed.