Investigation and Simulation of Technical Power Losses on 33/11kv Distribution Feeders Based on Gauss-Seidel Iterative Approach
Abstract:Loss of technical performance is one of the main causes of energy shortages and inefficient operation of electrical machines in energy systems. In this study, an analysis of power losses for six selected 33/11 kV distribution feeders was presented. (Kakoba, Ntare, Karamurani, Ishaka MbararaNorth1 and Mbarara North 2) at Mbarara Central Substation Network of UMEME Electricity Distribution Company in Uganda. Data such as cable type, conductor resistance, conductor reactance, and route length were obtained from energy suppliers. From this data, the Gauss-Seidel method was used to determine the total active power and associated reactive power of the entire substation system. The findings showed that the substation is profitable due to the small calculated total power losses. Although it is possible to reduce the total loss to at least 9-12%. Losses were due to old substations, overloaded transformers, and copper losses core losses in lengthy feeder routes. To improve the performance of power distribution networks, it was recommended to replace old conductors to reduce losses.