Simulation study for the comparison of power flow models for a line distribution network with stochastic load demands

TL;DR

This study uses simulation to compare Distflow and Linearized Distflow power flow models in a line distribution network with stochastic EV charging demands, assessing their impact on network performance.

Contribution

It provides a comparative analysis of power flow models under stochastic EV charging demands, highlighting their effects on distribution network performance.

Findings

Different power flow models significantly affect network performance metrics.

Stochastic EV demands influence voltage stability and load distribution.

Linearized models offer computational advantages with acceptable accuracy.

Abstract

We use simulation to compare different power flow models in the process of charging electric vehicles (EVs) by considering their random arrivals, their stochastic demand for energy at charging stations, and the characteristics of the electricity distribution network. We assume the distribution network is a line with charging stations located on it. We consider the Distflow and the Linearized Distflow power flow models and we assume that EVs arrive at the network with an exponential rate, have an exponential charging requirement, and that voltage drops on the distribution network stay under control. We provide extensive numerical results investigating the effect of using different power flow models on the performance of the network.