Robust microgrid power flow using particle swarm optimization

The proliferation of distributed generators (DGs) has altered a distribution network from a passive system to an active one. Therefore, power flow originally developed for the passive distribution system needs to account for a DG unit, which can operate either in PV or PQ control mode. Nevertheless, modifications previously proposed can only handle a limited number of PV buses. This paper presents a new robust three-phase distribution power flow, which incorporates the particle swarm optimization method into a Forward-Backward type method to handle a radial system with high R/X and high number of PV buses. Simulation and experimental results have validated the robustness and suitability of the proposed method to operate in a real microgrid system.