Abstract - D. McQueen, PGDipSci, Energy Management
Mathematical Modelling of Residential Electricity Demand for optimization of Low-Voltage networks
Dougal McQueen – 2000
The topic for this dissertation came from Mr Pat Hyland (principal of AuStralEA, engineering consultancy) who was concerned that present practice for sizing conductors in residential electricity networks is based upon British work dating back to 1953. Realising that the characteristics of residential electricity demand would be significantly different in New Zealand in 1995 he decided to reassess the methodologies in use.
Using data collected from an Auckland network in 1995, Mr Hyland collaborated with the Mathematics and Statistics department to produce a mathematical model to simulate electricity demand. This model was used as the input to a voltage drop calculator for use in low-voltage network design problems. The programme however lacked computational efficiency and was not appropriate for use as a design tool.
My Hyland again approached the University of Otago in 1999, this time the Energy Management department and the project was handed to myself.
The first task for this dissertation is to assess whether Mr Hyland’s assumptions about New Zealand industry practice are correct. This is achieved through the analysis of terms and standards as well as an analysis of industry practice. The analysis of industry practice is performed through the use of an industry questionnaire, which produces some interesting results and confirms Mr Hyland’s assumptions.
A mathematical model is then developed to expand upon Mr Hyland’s initial work and methodologies. This results in the creation of a mathematical model with greater flexibility and a more exacting standard of analysis.