Research Article | | Peer-Reviewed

A Contribution to the Conception of Madagascar’s Interprovincial Network Topology Using Graph Theory and Power Flow

Received: 10 July 2025     Accepted: 24 July 2025     Published: 13 August 2025
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Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to propose Madagascar Interprovincial Network using Graph Theory with Power Flow. This is accomplished by simulating the electrical network's topology using algorithms programmed with the Python language. The initial phase of the proposed algorithms consists in establishing connections between 17 source nodes and 94 load nodes, using the shortest path and maximizing the number of load nodes. The next phase consists in removing triangular links deemed superfluous. The third phase involves giving priority to load nodes located close to an electrical source node. The final phase involves removing any remaining superfluous links and applying the (n-k) rule. After the calculations, eight topologies of the Madagascar Interprovincial Network were established. Topology number 8 is the optimal one, comprising 126 links with optimal total distances of 7324 km. Based on this last topology, we carried out simulations of the transit and flow of energy in the static regime across the different busbars of the major mining projects and the different provinces of Madagascar by the PowerFactory software using the Newton-Raphson method. In the transmission line, we used the THTB 220 kV voltage. The simulation revealed, firstly, the location of reactive energy compensation devices, secondly, the removal and installation of new links, and thirdly, the placing on hold of 120 MW of electrical power out of the 300 MW of the slack bus Sahofika hydroelectric plant. For 2030 - 2040, with hydroelectric power plants generating a total of 1,454 MW and loads with a total capacity of 1,344.5 MW, the simulation results showed voltage drop levels with a ∆U value of ± 5% in all busbars and losses of 4.5% in relation to total production. In perspective, further studies in dynamic regime, interactions between emerging technologies and the power system across all voltage levels are to be carried out on the development of the Madagascar Interprovincial Network.

Published in International Journal of Energy and Power Engineering (Volume 14, Issue 3)
DOI 10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11
Page(s) 63-85
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Electrical Network Topology, Graph Theory, Power Flow, Voltage Drop, PowerFactory

1. Introduction
In the fight against poverty, access to energy services is essential to improve the living conditions of the African population. According to Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), by 2030, all people should have access to reliable, sustainable and modern energy services at an affordable cost .
The energy situation in Madagascar is difficult. As for 2022, the rate of access to electricity was estimated at 36%, with 72% in urban areas and 11% in rural areas . In 2019, per capita electricity consumption in Madagascar was 74.1 kWh, this is the lowest electricity consumption in the world . The national electricity and water company of Madagascar JIRAMA (Jiro sy Rano Malagasy), responsible for the generation, transportation, and distribution of electricity. The company's energy portfolio is predominantly reliant on imported fossil fuels. In 2024, the total cross energy produced by JIRAMA's power plants was 1 984 011 MWh, with 45.80% of this energy attributed to thermal power plants, 47.90% to hydraulic power plants, 4% to solar power plants, and 2.30% to hybrid solar/Diesel power plants . Madagascar has recently implemented a New Electricity Policy (NPE 2015-2030) with the objective of providing electricity to 70% of households and achieving an energy mix consisting of 80% renewable energies by the year 2030 . We know that access to energy is the driving force behind economic and social development in many countries. According to V. I. Lenin, the Soviets created the foundations for a better world by electrifying all their country . The island Madagascar has the third-largest technically feasible hydroelectric potential on the African continent, with an estimated output of energy 180,000 GWh. However, it is noteworthy that only 0.49% of this potential has been exploited , in addition to deposits of coal, bituminous sandstones, and heavy oil. Additionally, Madagascar boasts significant mineral wealth, with substantial deposits of nickel, cobalt, gold, titanium, iron, graphite and ilmenite, which are essential for the operation of electric vehicles and the reliable storage of renewable energy According to the United Nations (UN), the global demand for minerals necessary for the energy transition is expected to triple by the year 2030 . In order to address the pervasive issue of poverty in Madagascar, it is imperative to leverage the country's abundant natural resources while concurrently enhancing the densification of interconnected and isolated electric power networks through the implementation of short extensions. Achieving universal access to electricity by 2030 will require 1.6 million densification connections . This is the primary challenge confronting the development of Madagascar's Interprovincial Network (MIN), which necessitates an integrated and collaborative approach involving the Government, financial institutions, research centers, emerging technologies, private companies, and international organizations . The MIN has set forth the following objectives:
1) The supply of electricity from local resources to Madagascar's cities and major mining projects.
2) The reduction of the energy gap between Madagascar's six provinces.
3) The establishment of regional infrastructures for power generation, transmission, and distribution.
4) Finally, the promotion of Madagascar's green vision is imperative.
The objectives of this work of MIN topology are as follows:
1) design a topology for the MIN with shorter distances and a maximum number of connected cities, using the distance matrix of graph theory.
2) design algorithms to remove superfluous links and apply the (n-k) rule in this MIN’s topology.
3) evaluate the transit capacity and power flow of this MIN’s topology using Power Factory 15.1 software from JIRAMA.
2. Methodology for the Conception of MIN
2.1. State of the Art
The Madagascar Interprovincial Network MIN is simulated and analyzed according to two methods: Graph theory (GT) and Power Flow (PF). Murphy modeled electrical transmission and distribution networks as graphs, with nodes representing both energy sources and loads, and edges representing transmission lines. He developed the various methods of calculating the PF . Bazohuo Xie and al. used basic concepts and basic theorems of graph theory in the analysis and design of electrical network . Chaghi A developed the topology calculations of electrical energy distribution by Gt and PF . The method of Gladkikh E involves the analysis of different networks sciences efficiency enhancement through structural modifications aimed at minimizing energy losses while maximizing reliability . Bertrand J. worked on the application of GT to different electrical networks across all voltage levels . Yassini and al. proposed the formulation of a maximal tree of graphs in order to optimize an objective function while respecting edge capacity constraints . Xavier Giraud explained in his research where is proposed a new algorithm by combining depth-first search algorithm and Dijsktra algorithm . Within the framework of MIN, OMAZAKI Group is one of technical and engineering design consultants, their competency and skills are in power system study and design .
In other scientific literature, Poirson, A. and Lehman, X. used the fractal method to characterize the topology, distance, density and dispersions in the area served by the electrical network, geospatial electrification .
The problem of electrical power transport and distribution is approached under different formulations across all voltage levels. However, these formulations have been developed in the specific context of situations required by national and international electricity companies, whether for the planning or operation of their power grids.
2.2. Study Case
A graph G is defined as a pair (X,E) where X={x1, x2,..., xn } represents a finite non-empty set of elements called a Node or a Vertex of G and E={e1, e2,..., em} is a family of (unordered) pairs of elements of X, called Edges of G . In modeling our power system, the standard approach is to consider source nodes si and load nodes cj.
Figure 1. One source node and three load nodes.
In this figure 1, the graph is the set of nodes X = {s1, c1, c2, c3} and the set of edges E = {(s1, c1), (c1, c3), (s1, c2), (c2, c1), (c2, c3)}. The object of this study lies in the problem of long-term planning of MIN and more particularly in the search for a better topology taking into account he shortest links using the graph theory G = (X, E).
Figure 2. Green: source node si of hydroelectric power stations, Red: charge node ci of cities or industries.
In the course of this work, an analysis was conducted of the characteristics of the transmission network. The analysis focused on large sources, including hydroelectric power stations, as well as cities and electrical loads (major mining projects). The analysis took into account the shortest lines.
Consider a planar graph G = (X,E) with the set of vertex (sources and loads) X = {Antananarivo, Ambatolampy, Antanifotsy, Sahofika, Mahanoro, Antsirabe, Betafo, Antetezambato, Ambositra, Ambohimahasoa, Ranomafana, Fianarantsoa } and the set of connecting edges, figure 2, E = {(Antananarivo, Ambatolampy), (Ambatolampy, Antanifotsy), (Antanifotsy, Antsirabe), (Sahofika, Antanifotsy), (Sahofika, Mahanoro), (Antsirabe, Betafo), (Betafo, Antetezambato), (Antetezambato, Ambositra), (Ambositra, Ambohimahasoa), (Ambohimahasoa, Ranomafana), (Ambohimahasoa, Fianarantsoa)}.
2.2.1. Data Presentation of Source and Load Nodes
For topology modeling, the source nodes if made by 17 hydroelectric power plants presented in Table 1, and the load nodes are represented by cities with electrical power greater than or equal to 1 MW , and as well as the major mining projects listed in Table 2.
Table 1. Source nodes: 17 hydroelectric power stations.

Sources: si

Power: psi

Ampandriambazaha

90 MW

Mahavola

300 MW

Ambodiroka

42 MW

Antafofo

160 MW

Volobe 1

6 MW

Volobe 2

120 MW

Andekaleka

112 MW

Mandraka

24 MW

Antelomita

8 MW

Tsiazompaniry

5 MW

Mahitsy

20 MW

Maroantsetra Voloina

2, 5 MW

Sahofika

300MW

Antetezambato

120 MW

Sahanivotry

15 MW

Namorona

5 MW

Betoafo

300 MW

Table 2. Electric power demand for some large mining projects .

Location

Minig project

Recoverable quantity

Power estimated

Bemolanga

Bituminous sandstone

3 000 000 000 T

100 MW

Tsimiroro

Heavy oil

538 000 000 T

80 MW

Sakoa

Coal

84 000 000 T

100 MW

Sakaraha

Natural gaz

20 000 000 000 m3 per well

20 MW

Base Toliara

Ilmenite

800 000 T

20 MW

Ambatovy

Nickel Cobalt

125 000 000 T

30 MW

Manantenina

Bauxite

165 000 000 T

30 MW

Molo, Maniry

Graphite

17 000 T/an

50 MW

Soalala

Iron

800 000 000 T

20 MW

The electrical capacities of hydroelectric power stations are estimated under high scenarios . While the capacities and energy required for mining are obtained from our estimation] .
2.2.2. Conception of the Topology of the MIN
The objective of this work consists to design a topology for MIN, based on the charge and source nodes shown in figure 2. The first step in our algorithm is to minimize the total length of power lines connecting a electric charge node 𝑐𝑗 to a power source node 𝑠𝑖, while traversing as many electric charge nodes as possible.
As part of article, we have studied various GT algorithms . To model electrical distribution networks, we adopted the following method: let 𝑠𝑖 and 𝑐𝑗 denote a source node and a charge node respectively. 𝑖 = 0 to S-1 with 𝑆 the total number of sources. 𝑗 = 0 to 𝐶-1 with 𝐶 the total number of charges. 𝑝𝑠𝑖 and 𝑝𝑐𝑗 denote the power available at node 𝑠𝑖 and the power demanded at node 𝑐𝑗, respectively. Let's consider 𝑛𝑘 any node (regardless of whether it's source or charge) with 𝑘 = 0 to (𝑁-1) with 𝑁 = 𝑆+𝐶 the total number of nodes in the network. The power at node 𝑛𝑘 is 𝑝𝑛𝑘. D is the distance matrix such that:
D=[Dnp,nq](1)
with, q=0C-1(N-S) (N-1)
D is a square matrix of order N and is symmetrical.
Dnp,nq: distance between nodes 𝑛𝑝 and 𝑛𝑞
(Dnp,nq=Dnq,np)(2)
𝑛𝑝 𝑒𝑡 𝑛𝑞 are charges nodes for 𝑝,q = 0...(𝐶-1)
𝑛𝑝 𝑒𝑡 𝑛𝑞 are source nodes for 𝑝,q = (𝑁-𝑆)...(𝑁-1)
L is the link matrix such that:
L=Lnq,np(3)
avec, q=0C-1(N-S) (N-1),
L is square symmetrical of order N. Lnp,nq=0 if no link exists between a node 𝑛𝑝 and a node 𝑛𝑞
(Lnp,nq=Lnq,np)
Lnp,nq=1 if a line connects nodes 𝑛𝑝 and 𝑛𝑞.
Figure 3. Flowchart of maximum links between nodes by minimizing line lengths.
The programming chosen to design the topologies is carried out using the Python language, which is simple, intuitive, powerful and open source.
2.3. Analysis of Power Flow of the MIN
2.3.1. Static Power Flow Modeling
Power system topology is a complex network, using mathematical methods to optimize and analyze energy distribution and transmission networks. The Power Flow (PF) is never stable, as loads are constantly changing. Only for 15 to 30 minutes is it possible to conceive of a static state, and loads can be considered constant .
The objective of the PF calculations is to determine the steady-state operating characteristics of the MIN for the charges and sources defined in tables 1, 2, 3, 4. Once we have this information, we can easily calculate real power flows in all branches, as well as voltage drop. In this work, busbars (nodes) are classified as follows :
1) Load bus: Pi,Qi.
2) Generator bus: Pi,Vi,
3) Slack bus.
A. Load bus i: Pi, Qi
1) Pi and Qi are known,
2) Generator power: Pig = 0 and Qig = 0,
3) Vi and 𝛿i are unknown, to be determined,
4) Power output (scheduled): Pid and Qid are known.
𝑃𝑖ℎ=𝑃𝑖𝑔-𝑃𝑖𝑑=-𝑃𝑖𝑑(4)
𝑄𝑖ℎ=𝑄𝑖𝑔-𝑄𝑖𝑑=-𝑄𝑖𝑑(5)
B. Generator bus i: Pi, Vi
1) Pi and Vi are known,
2) Qi and 𝛿i are unknown, to be calculated
C. Slack bus i:
1) Vi and 𝛿i are known (as references),
2) Pi and 𝑄i are unknown, to be calculated,
3) In general, the most important generator bus is selected as the slack bus and numbered bus 1.
Losses = Total generations - Total charges
PL= i=1nPgi-i=1nPdi=i=1nPi(6)
2.3.2. Equation of Active and Reactive Power of Busbar i
To formulate the PF problem , we consider four variables at each busbar "i" of the power supply system. These variables are
1) Net active power injected: Pi
2) Net reactive power injected: Qi
3) Voltage modulus: Vi
4) Voltage angle: δi.
The active and reactive powers injected are calculated as follows:
𝑃𝑖=𝑃𝑖𝑔-𝑃𝑖𝑑(7)
𝑄𝑖=𝑄𝑖𝑔-𝑄𝑖𝑑(8)
In which 𝑃𝑖𝑔 and 𝑄𝑖𝑔 are active and reactive powers generated on busbar i, while 𝑃𝑖𝑑 and 𝑄𝑖𝑑 are active and reactive powers demanded on this busbar i.
According to Kirchhoff's laws at each set of bars:
𝐼=𝑌𝑉(9)
Ii=(Pi-jQi)Viejδi(10)
Where Ii Current injected on busbar i,
V: Bus voltage vector,
I: Vector of currents injected to buses,
Y: System admittance matrix,
I, V and Y are complex, 𝑉𝑖 = 𝑉𝑖𝑒𝑗𝛿𝑖 is the ith element of the V vector.
The matrix Y is symmetrical. The diagonal element Yij (self-admittance of bus i) contains the sum of the admittances of all branches connected to bus i.
The off-diagonal element Yij (mutual admittance) is equal to the negative sum of admittances between buses i and j.
Yij=Yijejγij=Gij+jBij is in the ith row and jth column of the Y matrix.
G and B are then called conductance and susceptance respectively.
Using (10) to replace I in (9) gives (11) and (12).
Pi=Vip=1NYipVpcosδi-δp-γip(11)
Qi=Vip=1NYipVpsinδi-δp-γip(12)
Where N is the number of buses in the power system.
To solve the load flow equations, we need to know two of the four variables for each bus. The study of load flow is one of the most difficult tasks in the field of electrical systems. It is important to note that the power system is never in a steady state, as the charges are in a constant state of change. In this study, we hypothesize that the loads remain constant for a duration of 15 to 30 minutes. In such instances, the solution techniques employed involve numerical methods for solving the non-linear algebraic equations. The load flow equations are solved by numerical methods :
1) Gauss-Seidel,
2) Newton-Raphson,
3) Decoupled-Rapid load flow,
4) Runge-Kutta,
5) Levenberg-Marquardt.
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on system size and accuracy requirements. Numerous software packages are available to help analyze PF, such as PowerFactory, ETAP, SKM, EasyPower, PSS, Neplan. To analyze the PF in the optimal topology of the MIN, we will exploit the Newton-Raphson method with the PowerFactory 15.1 software provided by the Electricity Planning Department of JIRAMA.
Figure 4. Topology 1 of MIN.
3. Results and Discussions on the Design of MIN
3.1. Results and Discussions by GT
3.1.1. Result of Topology 1
After calculation according to the algorithm in Figure 3, we obtain the first topology 1 of the MIN as follows:
Topology 1 is obtained after minimizing the total length of the lines connecting charge nodes to a source node, while traversing as many charge nodes as possible. After the first simulation, we observe the formation of unnecessary triangular meshes in some places, as they will clog up the high-voltage transmission networks.
3.1.2. Result of Topology 2
To improve topology 1, in figure 4, we need to remove the triangular meshes. We keep the other links composed of more than three nodes to ensure the viability of the network even after a hypothetical hazard on the nominal situation leading to the loss of "k" structures (rule n-k).
Let 𝑥 be a node such that;
k=0N-1Lx,nk3 (13)
[ai] is a node matrix such that:
Lx,ai=1 with i=0k=0N-1Lx,nk-1
A mesh forms a triangle if the summits are made up of n,ai,aj with
Lai,aj=1 ou Laj,ai=1. We calculate the following
distances:
D1=Dn,ai+Dai,aj(14)
D2=Dn,aj+Daj,ai(15)
D3=Dn,ai+Dn,aj(16)
If D1 is the minimum distance, so Ln,aj=Laj,n=0.
If D2 is the minimum distance, so Ln,ai=Lai,n=0.
If D3is the minimum distance, so Lai,aj=Laj,ai=0.
After launching the simulation, we obtain topology 2.
To have an optimal configuration of the topology 2, it is necessary to exploit the available power of the power plant as much as possible. The power plant, is responsible for allocating electrical power to the charge nodes in close proximity. This process ensuring that the power supply is utilized in an efficient and balanced manner.
In this way we are going to develop another algorithm to configure directly the topology 3.
3.1.3. Result of Topology 3
A source node power plant must supply the load nodes closest to it. Going from the smallest source 𝑠𝑖 to the largest, we determine the couplesSC=si,cj, the list of charge nodes to connect to the node source si.
Figure 5. Flowchart of prioritization of charge nodes around of source node.
After the simulation, we have a following new topology 3.
Figure 6. Topology 3 of MIN.
Note that for source 3, hydroelectrical power plant Mahavola 300MW, there remains 37.5 MW undispatched, and that source 4 hydroelectrical power plant Betoafo 300MW has not been exploited, because after the calculations we obtained; pcq=0 for all q=0 to C.
We remove the triangular meshes by applying the same principle of calculation of topology 2 to obtain the new topology 4.
3.1.4. Result of Topology 4
Figure 7. Topology 4 of MIN.
By tapping the remaining non-dispatched Betoafo 300 MW sources, i.e. in cases where 𝑝𝑠𝑘 remains unchanged from psi. The method is identical to that for topology 3, but the node-charge powers 𝑝𝑐𝑞 are reset to the values initially given.
3.1.5. Result of Topology 5
Figure 8. Topology 5 of MIN.
With the Betoafo power station now in operation, new links are appearing, such as Amboasary-Tsiombe, Amboasary Beraketa and Midongy-Betroka. We also note the reappearance of 4 new superflous meshes which must be removed using the same calculation principle, giving us topology 6.
3.1.6. Result of Topology 6
Figure 9. Topology 6 of MIN.
Topology 6 of MIN is optimal in terms of number of links (120) and total length (6917 km). However, this topology does not provide sufficient redundancy for the provincial capital, Toliara, and other major loads with high peak power, to continue operating normally in the event of failure of upstream links.
For this reason, we initiated the following method: all major loads 𝑐𝑗 including 𝑝𝑐𝑗 ≥ 20𝑀𝑊 must be connected to at least two 𝑠𝑖 𝑒𝑡 𝑠𝑘 nearest sources.
With pcjpsi and pcjpsk.
Table 3. Power charge nodes greater than or equal to 20 MW .

Location

Power

Antananarivo 1

140 MW

Antananarivo 2

128 MW

Antsirabe

26.8 MW

Moramanga

26.8 MW

Toamasina

67 MW

Antsiranana

40.20 MW

Mahajanga

29.48 MW

Morondava

26.8 MW

Fianarantsoa

40.2 MW

Manakara

20.10 MW

Toliara

26.8 MW

Project Ambatovy Tamatave

134 MW

Project QMM

60 MW

Project SakoaYOXFORD

50 MW

Project Tsimiroro Madagascar Oil

40 MW

Project Bemolanga

50 MW

Project Soalala

30 MW

Project Base Toliara

20 MW

Project Sakaraha

20 MW

Project Bauxite Manantenina

20 MW

Table 4. Hydroelectric source nodes of power greater than or equal to 20 MW .

Location

Power

Ampandriambazaha

90 MW

Ambodiroka

42 MW

Antafofo

160 MW

Mahavola

300 MW

Volobe 2

120 MW

Andekaleka

112 MW

Mandraka

24 MW

Mahitsy

20 MW

Antetezambato

120 MW

Sahofika

300 MW

Betoafo

300 MW

3.1.7. Result of Topology 7
Figure 10. Topology 7 of MIN.
After calculation, we obtain topology 7, according to which the provincial capital of Toliara and other nodes with loads above 20MW have reserve links. We note the reappearance of 5 superfluous meshes: mesh (Ranomafana-Ambohimahasoa-Ambositra), mesh (Sahanivotry-Antsirabe-Antanifotsy), mesh (Antanifotsy-Ambatolampy-Tsiazompaniry), mesh (Mananara Nord-Voloina-Mandritsara) and mesh (Ampandriambazaha-Ambilobe- Abanja). We use the same procedure to remove triangular meshes.
3.1.8. Result of Topology 8
Figure 11. Topology 8 of MIN.
After the various simulation steps, we obtain topology 8, figure 11. We note that the Bemolanga and Soalala projects do not have sufficient reserve links for their power supplies. Nevertheless, we can say that topology 8 represents the optimal topology of MIN. It comprises 126 links with a total length of 7324 km. The key results of our topology design study are presented in the following Table 5.
Table 5. Summary of topologies of MIN.

Centralnumber

Charge number

Methodology

Results

Link number

Total line length

Network

17

94

Conception of algorithm to create lines connecting load nodes to a source nodes, while crossing as many load nodes as possible with minimum length

173

11 161 km

Topology 1

17

94

Algorithm to remove triangular meshes

138

8 549 km

Topology 2

17

94

Algorithm to supply the load nodes closest to source node as a priority, taking into account the power available and demanded.

128

7 468 km

Topology 3

17

94

Algorithm to remove triangular meshes

120

6 855 km

Topology 4

17

94

Algorithm for exploiting remaining non-dispatched sources

128

7412 km

Topology 5

17

94

Algorithm to remove triangular meshes

120

6 917 km

Topology 6

17

94

Algorithm for application a rule (n-k)

134

7 806 km

Topology 7

17

94

Algorithm to remove superfluous meshes

126

7 324 km

Topology 8

According to the results of this work:
1) all 94 load nodes are supplied with electrical energy,
2) all 17 sources nodes deliver electrical energy,
3) load nodes with a power rating of 20 MW or more have at least two power supply links,
4) Topology 8 of the MIN is the optimal topology, taking into account all the constraints mentioned in the different topologies,
5) In this study, load nodes and source nodes are not prioritized,
6) HT transmission networks and MT distribution networks have not yet been distinguished.
Just like frequency, voltage is an essential parameter for power system operation. Voltage withstand is an essential component of power system reliability.
In the remainder of this work, we will study the transit and PF:
1) determining network voltages so as to achieve a balance between generators and loads,
2) locating overloaded elements of the Madagascar Interprovincial Network.
3.2. Results and Discussions on PF for Topology 8 of the MIN
Following our collaboration, the Electricity Planning Department of the JIRAMA , provided us with technical data and PowerFactory 15.1 software to study PF and possible improvements to the MIN 8 topology obtained using GT.
3.2.1. Realization of MIN by Topology 8 Under PowerFactory
The Electrical Transmission System (ETS) is a complex system that takes into account generation, transmission, distribution and consumption. The power the charges are in a constant state of change. In this study, we hypothesize that the loads remain constant for a duration of 15 to 30 minutes. We have modeled the High Voltage Transmission Network, taking into account the Least Cost Development Plan (PDMC) , data provided by the JIRAMA Electricity Planning Department and the MIN under 8 topology obtained by GT.
Table 6. Load states of power transformers in provincials capitals.

Province

Power Transformer

Load charge

Antsiranana

TR63MVA

66%

Mahajanga

TR45MVA

67.3%

Antananarivo

5 x TR90 MVA

59.2%

Fianarantsoa

TR63MVA

64.7%

Toamasina

2 x TR50MVA

68.8%

Toliara

TR50MVA

52.1%

We note that the provincial capitals have sufficient power until 2030-2040.
After the simulation under PowerFactory, to ensure the supply of electrical energy in all of Madagascar with voltage drops and energy losses within the norm , a few changes in topology 8 on figure 11 are necessary:
A. Change of some links in topology 8:
Subsequent to the PF study, a process of link removal and addition was initiated.
Table 7. Change of links in topology 8.

Additional links

Line distance

Removal links

Line distance

Antetezambato - Antsirabe

+50 km

Antetezambato - Betafo

-37.4 km

Sahofika - Antsirabe

+125 km

Sahanivotry - Antetezambato

-38.5 km

Betoafo - Fianarantsoa

+235 km

Ambalavao - Fianarantsoa

-45.1 km

The rearrangement of topology 8 of MIN was implemented and the total length becomes 7613 km.
B. Installation of reactive energy compensation devices.
Table 8. Installation of compensators in MIN.

Location busbar

Power of Compensators

Ambanja

10 MVAR

Ambatoboeny

30 MVAR

Antananarivo

90 MVAR

Mahabo

55 MVAR

Project Sakaraha

10 MVAR

Project Sakoa

30 MVAR

Toliara

45 MVAR

Reactive power compensation devices require well-defined locations and powers, depending on the PF in the electrical network . The allocation and sizing of compensators in MIN are used to reduce system power loss and improve the voltage drops in the MIN.
A. Management of generator interlocking in the Slack bus 300 MW of Sahofika
Around Sahofika, the loads are insufficient. 120 MW, or two out of five had to be disconnected as they would create overloads on three other generators. Following the last PF simulation, according to figure 12, generators 4 and 5 are disconnected. They can be considered as reserve power, estimated at 120MW.
3.2.2. PF in the MIN Under Static Regime
We will carry out the simulation on PowerFactory according to the grid code, the long-term planning in force in Madagascar. We adopt the THTB voltage 220 kV with the authorized voltage drop ∆𝑈 = ± 10%
The simulation results show us the voltage levels in all busbars of the MIN during operation. All voltage drops are within the norm, i.e. ∆𝑈 = ± 10%. At 1454 MW, the total load is estimated at 1344.5 MW and the total losses are calculated at 66 MW or 4.5% compared to the total production. The result of the simulation of MIN of the big island Madagascar can be found in figure 14. The Newton-Raphson algorithm, in the PowerFactory software, converges in 6 iterations. The detailed of simulation by PowerFactory are shown in figure 15.
Figure 12. State of load of the Sahofika reference hydropower plant.
Figure 13. Outcomes of a computational process on PowerFactory.
Figure 14. System report summary.
Figure 15. PF from the 220 kV of MIN.
Figure 16. Voltage drops in rectified topology 8 for the MIN (part 1).
Figure 17. Voltage drops in rectified topology 8 for the MIN (part 2).
This topology, shown in Figure 18, represents Madagascar's Interprovincial Network obtained by graph theory and power flow throughout the 17 source nodes and 94 load nodes. From this topology, we can see that the Sahofika 300 MW supplies the provinces of Toliara and Fianarantsoa. The Sahofika 300MW and Antetezambato 120 MW plants work for the province of Antananarivo. The Volobe 120MW and Andekaleka 112 MW plants give their power for the province of Toamasina. The Mahavola 300 MW, Antafofo 160 MW and Ambodiroka 42 MW plants will supply the provinces of Mahajanga and Antananarivo. The 90 MW Ampandriambazaha power station works for the province of Antsiranana. The total length of the line is estimated as 7613 km.
Figure 18. Topology of MIN simulated by GT and PF.
3.3. Cost Implications of Implementing MIN
The economic evaluation of the MIN depends on several factors: the length of the line, topographical and environmental constraints, the number of transformer stations and logistical conditions. We have established a rough estimate of the cost of the MIN based on the PRIRTEM projects (Project to Reinforce and Interconnect Power Transmission Networks in Madagascar) in the following table.
Table 9. Cost of the implications of MIN .

Designation

Approximate cost USD/km

Number

Unit

Montant

Cables and Pylognes double-circuit 220 kV

400 000

7613

km

3 045 200 000

Transformer substation < 5MW

1 200 000

30

unit

36 000 000

Transformer substation between 5MW and 10MW

2 000 000

27

unit

54 000 000

Transformer substation between 10MW and 25MW

5 000 000

17

unit

85 000 000

Transformer substation between 25MW and 50MW

10 000 000

12

unit

120 000 000

Transformer substation between 50MW and 90MW

15 000 000

14

unit

210 000 000

Dispositif de compensation entre 10 Mvar et 30 Mvar

1 000 000

4

Unit

4 000 000

Dispositif de compensation entre 30 Mvar et 90 Mvar

5 000 000

3

Unit

15 000 000

Civil engineering and implementation

200 000

7613

km

1 522 600 000

Technical studies

100 000

7613

km

761 300 000

TOTAL in USD

5 853 100 000

The success of this large-scale project of MIN requires close collaboration between the Malagasy Government and Technical and Financial Partners, in exchange for the exploitation of Madagascar's abundant mineral resources.
4. Conclusions
The electrification plays an important role in improving the living conditions of the Malagasy population. We propose to make the most of our natural resources to ensure carbon-free and sustainable energy development. This is the major challenge facing the development of Madagascar Interprovincial Electrical Network (MIN).
Reducing the all distances between loads and electric sources which are dispersed throughout various regions is the primary problem. Graph theory (GT) was used to design the MIN. The graph is made up of 111 vertexes, including 17 source vertexes and 94 load vertexes, which can be found on the map of Madagascar with scale and their res- pective geographic coordinates.
The problem with this work lies in modeling the shorter distances between electrical loads and hydroelectric power sources, as the latter are scattered in various locations. The programming required to design the topologies is carried out using the Python language, which is simple, intuitive, powerful and open source. The objective of this initiative is to establish optimal connections between 94 load nodes and 17 source nodes. The first step in our algorithm is to connect source nodes to load nodes with minimum distances and to connect as many load nodes as possible. The second stage of our algorithm consists of deleting triangular meshes deemed unnecessary, the third stage involves prioritizing load nodes around a source node and the fourth stage involves deleting superfluous meshes and applying the (n-k) rule.
Following a series of calculation stages, eight distinct topologies of MIN were obtained. The final topology, designated as number 8, is identified as the optimal topology. From this last topology, we carried out simulations of Power Flow (PF) in the static regime across the different busbars of the different provinces and the major mining projects of Madagascar by the PowerFactory software using the Newton-Raphson method. In the transmission line, we used the THTB 220 kV voltage.
According to the simulation results and taking into account the Madagascar grid code regarding long-term planning 2030-2040, we find the Madagascar Interprovincial Network in an optimal distance 7613 km. The capacity of hydroelectric plants installed is estimated at 1454 MW, the total load is estimated at 1344,5 MW, and the total losses are calculated at 66 MW, or 4.5% of total production. The estimated cost of constructing the MIN is approximately 5.86 billion dollars.
The stability of the MIN also needs to be studied, both in terms of small disturbances and large disturbances in dynamic regimes. It will also be necessary to examine the applicability of emerging technologies to interconnected power systems. Economic and financial studies will enable MIN to be built at lower cost. The study of environmental impacts occupies an important place.
Abbreviations

JIRAMA

JIro sy RAno Malagasy (National Electricity and Water Company of Madagascar)

NPE

New Energy Policies

SDG

Sustainable Development Goal

MIN

Madagascar's Interprovincial Network

EITI

Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative

GT

Graph Theory

PF

Power Flow

PDMC

Plan de Développement au Moindre Coût (Least Cost Development Plan)

PRIRTEM

Projet de Renforcement et d’Interconnexion des Réseaux de Transport d’Energie électrique à Madagascar.

THTB

Très Haute Tension classe B

Author Contributions
Solofo Hery Rakotoniaina: Conceptualization, Methodology, Supervision, Validation, Writing - review & editing
Olivier Mickael Ranarison: Software, Writing - original draft
Rajo Harivelo Randriamboavonjy: Data curation
Mamy Prudence Rakotondrainitsimba: Resources, Software, Validation
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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Cite This Article
  • APA Style

    Rakotoniaina, S. H., Ranarison, O. M., Randriamboavonjy, R. H., Rakotondrainitsimba, M. P. (2025). A Contribution to the Conception of Madagascar’s Interprovincial Network Topology Using Graph Theory and Power Flow. International Journal of Energy and Power Engineering, 14(3), 63-85. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11

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    Rakotoniaina, S. H.; Ranarison, O. M.; Randriamboavonjy, R. H.; Rakotondrainitsimba, M. P. A Contribution to the Conception of Madagascar’s Interprovincial Network Topology Using Graph Theory and Power Flow. Int. J. Energy Power Eng. 2025, 14(3), 63-85. doi: 10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11

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    Rakotoniaina SH, Ranarison OM, Randriamboavonjy RH, Rakotondrainitsimba MP. A Contribution to the Conception of Madagascar’s Interprovincial Network Topology Using Graph Theory and Power Flow. Int J Energy Power Eng. 2025;14(3):63-85. doi: 10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11

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  • @article{10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11,
      author = {Solofo Hery Rakotoniaina and Olivier Mickael Ranarison and Rajo Harivelo Randriamboavonjy and Mamy Prudence Rakotondrainitsimba},
      title = {A Contribution to the Conception of Madagascar’s Interprovincial Network Topology Using Graph Theory and Power Flow
    },
      journal = {International Journal of Energy and Power Engineering},
      volume = {14},
      number = {3},
      pages = {63-85},
      doi = {10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11},
      url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11},
      eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijepe.20251403.11},
      abstract = {The purpose of this paper is to propose Madagascar Interprovincial Network using Graph Theory with Power Flow. This is accomplished by simulating the electrical network's topology using algorithms programmed with the Python language. The initial phase of the proposed algorithms consists in establishing connections between 17 source nodes and 94 load nodes, using the shortest path and maximizing the number of load nodes. The next phase consists in removing triangular links deemed superfluous. The third phase involves giving priority to load nodes located close to an electrical source node. The final phase involves removing any remaining superfluous links and applying the (n-k) rule. After the calculations, eight topologies of the Madagascar Interprovincial Network were established. Topology number 8 is the optimal one, comprising 126 links with optimal total distances of 7324 km. Based on this last topology, we carried out simulations of the transit and flow of energy in the static regime across the different busbars of the major mining projects and the different provinces of Madagascar by the PowerFactory software using the Newton-Raphson method. In the transmission line, we used the THTB 220 kV voltage. The simulation revealed, firstly, the location of reactive energy compensation devices, secondly, the removal and installation of new links, and thirdly, the placing on hold of 120 MW of electrical power out of the 300 MW of the slack bus Sahofika hydroelectric plant. For 2030 - 2040, with hydroelectric power plants generating a total of 1,454 MW and loads with a total capacity of 1,344.5 MW, the simulation results showed voltage drop levels with a ∆U value of ± 5% in all busbars and losses of 4.5% in relation to total production. In perspective, further studies in dynamic regime, interactions between emerging technologies and the power system across all voltage levels are to be carried out on the development of the Madagascar Interprovincial Network.},
     year = {2025}
    }
    

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  • TY  - JOUR
    T1  - A Contribution to the Conception of Madagascar’s Interprovincial Network Topology Using Graph Theory and Power Flow
    
    AU  - Solofo Hery Rakotoniaina
    AU  - Olivier Mickael Ranarison
    AU  - Rajo Harivelo Randriamboavonjy
    AU  - Mamy Prudence Rakotondrainitsimba
    Y1  - 2025/08/13
    PY  - 2025
    N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11
    DO  - 10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11
    T2  - International Journal of Energy and Power Engineering
    JF  - International Journal of Energy and Power Engineering
    JO  - International Journal of Energy and Power Engineering
    SP  - 63
    EP  - 85
    PB  - Science Publishing Group
    SN  - 2326-960X
    UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijepe.20251403.11
    AB  - The purpose of this paper is to propose Madagascar Interprovincial Network using Graph Theory with Power Flow. This is accomplished by simulating the electrical network's topology using algorithms programmed with the Python language. The initial phase of the proposed algorithms consists in establishing connections between 17 source nodes and 94 load nodes, using the shortest path and maximizing the number of load nodes. The next phase consists in removing triangular links deemed superfluous. The third phase involves giving priority to load nodes located close to an electrical source node. The final phase involves removing any remaining superfluous links and applying the (n-k) rule. After the calculations, eight topologies of the Madagascar Interprovincial Network were established. Topology number 8 is the optimal one, comprising 126 links with optimal total distances of 7324 km. Based on this last topology, we carried out simulations of the transit and flow of energy in the static regime across the different busbars of the major mining projects and the different provinces of Madagascar by the PowerFactory software using the Newton-Raphson method. In the transmission line, we used the THTB 220 kV voltage. The simulation revealed, firstly, the location of reactive energy compensation devices, secondly, the removal and installation of new links, and thirdly, the placing on hold of 120 MW of electrical power out of the 300 MW of the slack bus Sahofika hydroelectric plant. For 2030 - 2040, with hydroelectric power plants generating a total of 1,454 MW and loads with a total capacity of 1,344.5 MW, the simulation results showed voltage drop levels with a ∆U value of ± 5% in all busbars and losses of 4.5% in relation to total production. In perspective, further studies in dynamic regime, interactions between emerging technologies and the power system across all voltage levels are to be carried out on the development of the Madagascar Interprovincial Network.
    VL  - 14
    IS  - 3
    ER  - 

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