Network Congestion Warning Indices

This letter presents a systematic approach that composes network congestion warning indices and lights of given power service areas. Based on typical power system analysis methods and engineering judgments, a set of indices and congestion severity measures were developed. The composite indices include the normal condition margin index and the contingency margin index, and each includes three measures with corresponding weightings to address the current and future transmission margins, single worst transmission element, and system average loading. The weighting factors are adjusted according to system characteristics and specific planning principles adopted by stakeholders. The congestion warning lights are then defined on a two-dimension plot based on the indices computed. The resultant indicating lights can be used as simple media for conveying possible network congestion problems.