Backward–forward sweep inverse power flow for distribution line parameters estimation with metering data

The transition towards the smart grid requires better information on the electrical networks at the distribution system level. Information about electrical line parameters is a critical part of such information. An algorithm for estimating electric line parameters of medium-voltage distribution networks is proposed. The algorithm relies upon active/reactive power and nodal voltage magnitude data from advanced metering infrastructure and combines an Ordinary Least Squares estimator with the classical Backward–Forward Sweep load-flow method to iteratively estimate the admittance parameters of the electrical network components. The algorithm is proposed to be applied to balanced loading situations of networks where zero-injection non-monitored nodes may exist. Simulations using the IEEE 33-bus system are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method under different loading situations and measurement noise levels.