Modeling The Power Grid Network Of Iraq

Abstract

Recently, the theory of Complex Networks gives a modern insight into a variety of applications in our life. Complex Networks are used to form complex phenomena into graph-based models that include nodes and edges connecting them. This representation can be analyzed by using network metrics such as node degree, clustering coefficient, path length, closeness, betweenness, density, and diameter, to mention a few. The topology of the complex interconnections of power grids is considered one of the challenges that can be faced in terms of understanding and analyzing them. Therefore, some countries use Complex Networks concepts to model their power grid networks. In this work, the Iraqi Power Grid network (IPG) has been modeled, visualized and analyzed according to the theory of Complex Networks by representing the stations as nodes and the transmission lines as edges. This analysis is done by applying network metrics to the proposed national IPG network. Finally, this work provides a professional visualization of the generated network based on the demographic distribution and the accurate coordinates of the power stations. Thus, this proposed network is useful for the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity. Besides, it can be adopted by officials and specialists to understand, visualize and evaluate the performance of the current IPG network since it is still under development and modernization.

Keywords

• Complex Networks, Network Metrics, Network Modeling, Power Grid Networks