There are essentially two approaches to load modeling: component based and measurement based. Load modeling research over the years has included both approaches. Of the two, the component-based approach lends itself more readily to model generalization. It is generally easier to control test procedures and apply wide variations in test voltage and frequency on individual components.
The component-based approach is a “bottom-up” approach in that the different load component types comprising load are identified. Each load component type is tested to determine the relationship between real and reactive power requirements versus applied voltage and frequency. A load model, typically in polynomial or exponential form, is then developed from the respective test data. The range of validity of each model is directly related to the range over which the component was tested. For convenience, the load model is expressed on a per-unit basis (i.e., normalized with respect to rated power, rated voltage, rated frequency, rated torque if applicable, and base temperature if applicable). A composite load is approximated by combining appropriate load model types in certain proportions based on load survey information. The resulting composition is referred to as a “load window.”
The measurement approach is a “top-down” approach in that measurements are taken at either a substation level, feeder level, some load aggregation point along a feeder, or at some individual load point. Variation of frequency for this type of measurement is not usually performed unless special test arrangements can be made. Voltage is varied using a suitable means and the measured real and reactive power consumption recorded. Statistical methods are then used to determine load models. A load survey may be necessary to classify the models derived in this manner. The range of validity for this approach is directly related to the realistic range over which the tests can be conducted without damage to customers’ equipment. Both the component and measurement methods were used in the EPRI research projects EL-2036 (1981) and EL-3591 (1984–85). The component test method was used to characterize a number of individual load components that were in turn used in simulation studies. The measurement method was applied to an aggregate of actual loads along a portion of a feeder to verify and validate the component method.
The component-based approach is a “bottom-up” approach in that the different load component types comprising load are identified. Each load component type is tested to determine the relationship between real and reactive power requirements versus applied voltage and frequency. A load model, typically in polynomial or exponential form, is then developed from the respective test data. The range of validity of each model is directly related to the range over which the component was tested. For convenience, the load model is expressed on a per-unit basis (i.e., normalized with respect to rated power, rated voltage, rated frequency, rated torque if applicable, and base temperature if applicable). A composite load is approximated by combining appropriate load model types in certain proportions based on load survey information. The resulting composition is referred to as a “load window.”
The measurement approach is a “top-down” approach in that measurements are taken at either a substation level, feeder level, some load aggregation point along a feeder, or at some individual load point. Variation of frequency for this type of measurement is not usually performed unless special test arrangements can be made. Voltage is varied using a suitable means and the measured real and reactive power consumption recorded. Statistical methods are then used to determine load models. A load survey may be necessary to classify the models derived in this manner. The range of validity for this approach is directly related to the realistic range over which the tests can be conducted without damage to customers’ equipment. Both the component and measurement methods were used in the EPRI research projects EL-2036 (1981) and EL-3591 (1984–85). The component test method was used to characterize a number of individual load components that were in turn used in simulation studies. The measurement method was applied to an aggregate of actual loads along a portion of a feeder to verify and validate the component method.
