Load Area model accuracy in distribution systems

Modern distribution systems evidence an increasing complexity, stemming from the necessity of new and updated monitoring and control functionalities. A heavy information burden is associated with complexity, which requires an appropriate information treatment. In this view, a relevant simplification of information can be achieved by representing distribution networks by sub-networks, called Load Areas (LAs). The LA concept and its possible implementations have been already proposed. The paper proposes a general formulation of LA, with an exhaustive explanation of the approximation introduced by the model; also, the reduction of information burden is evidenced. For a given study network, the results in different configurations highlight the impact of the proposed model on the accuracy of the LA representations, and also the relevant reduction of the amount of information required to describe the network, and a reduction of computational burden as well.