Utilising Smart-Meter Harmonic Data for Low-Voltage Network Topology Identification

Ali Othman (), Neville R. Watson (), Andrew Lapthorn and Radnya Mukhedkar
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Ali Othman: Electrical & Computer Engineering Department, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Neville R. Watson: Electrical & Computer Engineering Department, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Andrew Lapthorn: Electrical & Computer Engineering Department, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Radnya Mukhedkar: EPECentre, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 13, 1-23

Abstract: Identifying the topology of low-voltage (LV) networks is becoming increasingly important. Having precise and accurate topology information is crucial for future network operations and network modelling. Topology identification approaches based on smart-meter data typically rely on Root Mean Square (RMS) voltage, current, and power measurements, which are limited in accuracy due to factors such as time resolution, measurement intervals, and instrument errors. This paper presents a novel methodology for identifying distribution network topologies through the utilisation of smart-meter harmonic data. The methodology introduces, for the first time, the application of voltage Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) and individual harmonic components ( V 2 – V 20 ) as topology identifiers. The proposed approach leverages the unique properties of harmonic distortion to improve the accuracy of topology identification. This paper first analyses the influential factors affecting topology identification, establishing that harmonic distortion propagation patterns offer superior discrimination compared to RMS voltage. Through systematic investigation, the findings demonstrate the potential of harmonic-based analysis as a more effective alternative for topology identification in modern power distribution systems.

Keywords: low-voltage networks; network topology identification; smart-meter; harmonics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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