The dependence of the asymmetry regime on the key features of rural networks classification

Abstract

Relevance: in recent years, the issue of stabilizing electricity supply in rural areas has become particularly important. Due to the seasonal nature of agricultural production, uneven household consumption, and the predominance of single-phase loads in low-voltage networks, unbalanced operating modes of electrical energy have become increasingly evident. Voltage unbalance not only deteriorates the quality indicators of electric power but also leads to transformer overheating, increased losses in electrical equipment, and a reduction in service life. The main classification features of rural power networks—such as voltage level, schematic configuration, type of load, and line length—directly influence the occurrence and development of unbalanced operating conditions. Therefore, in order to ensure a stable electricity supply to rural areas, effectively distribute existing capacities, and deliver high-quality electrical energy to consumers, it is essential to conduct an in-depth study of unbalance processes and analyze them in relation to the network classifications. In such conditions, identifying the sources of unbalance, assessing its consequences, and developing recommendations to mitigate it are of great scientific and practical importance for improving the reliability of rural power supply systems, enhancing power quality, and reducing energy losses.

Aim: to analyze the causes and consequences of unbalanced operating modes occurring in rural power supply systems in relation to their main classifications (voltage level, topology, load type, and line length) and to substantiate effective technical and organizational measures aimed at improving the quality of electrical energy supplied to consumers.

Methods: comparative analysis methods are used to assess and compare the degree of unbalance in networks of different classifications.

Results: in the analysis of load unbalance probability in rural power networks with a voltage level of 0.38 kV, it was determined that instead of using multiple characteristic curves, it is advisable to divide them into two main groups. Based on the analysis results, recommendations are provided for simplifying and improving the accuracy of load unbalance calculations by using two representative characteristic curves.