OPTIMIZING GRID STABILITY THROUGH EFFECTIVE BUS LOAD MANAGEMENT AND VOLTAGE CONTROL IN EKET’S 33kV FEEDERS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

Abstract

This study focuses on enhancing grid stability in the Eket power distribution system, managed by the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC). It analyzes the performance of 33kV feeders (Eket, Etinan, Ekpene Ukpa, Mbo, and Ibeno) in delivering electricity to diverse consumers. Advanced load flow simulations (Newton Raphson and Fast Decoupled Techniques) identified critical buses with voltage instability and high reactive power flow. Key findings include; Eket Bus: High efficiency (95.8% power factor) and stable voltage (70.82%) despite heavy loads (141.4 kA), but monitoring is needed to prevent equipment overheating. Etinan Bus: Low power factor (76.8%) and high impedance (649.5 ohms) indicate voltage regulation challenges. Ekpene Ukpa Bus: Moderate performance with an 84.5% power factor and high impedance (2915.2 ohms). Mbo Bus: Poor performance with a 29.9% power factor and high impedance (2780.1 ohms), requiring urgent power factor correction. Ibeno Bus: Excellent efficiency (97.9% power factor) with moderate impedance (1612.9 ohms). The study identified total active power losses of 17.881 kW and reactive power losses of 121.171 kW. Strategic placement of distributed generators improved load distribution, power factor, and system reliability. Post-implementation results showed a 20% reduction in voltage drops and a power factor nearing unity. Key strategies included reactive power compensation, capacitor bank placement, and transformer optimization, resulting in improved voltage profiles and reduced technical losses. This research offers a practical framework for addressing grid instability, contributing to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and aligning with sustainable energy goals for affordable, reliable, and efficient electricity distribution.