Computational Voltage Stability Analysis of a 20-kV Distribution Feeder in Makassar

Abstract

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Radial 20-kV distribution networks are susceptible to voltage deterioration and increasing power losses as loading rises. This study analyzes the voltage stability of the Antang feeder in Makassar, Indonesia, using the Backward/Forward Sweep method. The model was developed from secondary data for an actual Indonesian feeder, including an 11.32-km line length, 45 distribution substations, 50- and 70-mm2 conductors, and a base load of 3,192.14 kVA. The 100% base case was calibrated against active and reactive power losses of 47.2 kW and 118.8 kVAr, respectively, and a maximum voltage drop of 1.84%. Uniform loading scenarios of 50%, 75%, 100%, and 125% were subsequently applied to all load buses. The minimum voltage decreased from 0.9908 pu at 50% loading to 0.9770 pu at 125% loading. Concurrently, active power losses increased from 11.80 to 73.75 kW, while reactive power losses increased from 29.70 to 185.63 kVAr. All scenarios remained above the 0.95-pu minimum voltage limit; nevertheless, the declining voltage profile and rapidly increasing losses indicate a reduced operating margin. The results demonstrate that a data-informed computational approach can support load-growth assessment and voltage-management planning for Indonesian 20-kV distribution feeders.