Re-power a distribution network with a rapidly changing level of demand through simulation technology

This paper addresses the planning of distribution networks with an accelerated growing demand and illustrates the impact of simulation technologies on the design of strategies to repower such networks. The paper specifically presents methods to study a real network - the HV and MV distribution network of EDEL, in Luanda, Angola, that is being studied jointly by EDP and EDEL. Luanda´s network was designed for a population of 800 thousand and now has a population of 5 million. The paper describes the technologies and methodologies used (1) to survey the existing network and converting multiple support information into a unique georeferenced database, (2) to assess the existing network operational status, strengths and shortcomings, and (3) to develop strategies to overcome the problems found, reduce losses, improve reliability and security. The paper also presents the network designs employed to mitigate high-probability low-risk events and low-probability high-risk extreme events.