Regulación del voltaje en los alimentadores Santa Martha y Palenque de CNEL Un Los Ríos mediante expresiones matemáticas y modelado de flujo de carga

Abstract

In the Ecuadorian electrical system, it is essential for power distribution companies to comply with the quality parameters established by the regulatory authority ARCONEL, particularly those related to voltage levels supplied to end users. However, distribution networks often face operational limitations that make it difficult to maintain adequate voltage profiles in certain areas. These limitations are mainly associated with adverse climatic conditions, the physical length of distribution feeders, and the geographical location of service areas that are electrically distant from the main power injection points. This situation is evident in CNEL EP – Los Ríos Business Unit, specifically in the Palenque canton, where noncompliance with power quality standards has been identified. The main cause of this condition is the considerable distance between Palenque and the Nuevo Babahoyo subtransmission substation, owned by CELEC EP. This long electrical distance leads to progressive voltage drops along the medium-voltage feeders, resulting in voltage levels below the limits established by current regulations. In response to this issue, this work presents a technical study aimed at estimating the appropriate location of voltage regulators along the feeders supplying the Palenque canton. The study applies mathematical expressions for voltage drop and voltage regulation, and the obtained results are contrasted with those derived from load-flow modeling using specialized distribution system software. In addition, the performance of the electrical network is compared before and after the implementation of voltage regulators in order to verify improvements in the voltage profile and compliance with ARCONEL requirements, thereby contributing to the enhancement of power quality in the studied area.