This paper proposes a new state estimation method modeled as a nonlinear programming problem with equality constraints. The majority of the estimated state estimation methods work with a set of measurements composed of active and reactive power flows on branches, active and reactive injection power on nodes, and nodal voltage magnitudes. In this method, the current magnitude branch measurements are considered in a simpler and direct manner, increasing the global redundancy of the system. Tests were carried out with several systems widely known in the literature and the results obtained confirmed the efficiency of the method. The method can be applied both to transmission and distribution systems and permit the inclusion of the inequality constraints and the bad data processing. © 2007 IEEE.