1. A computer-implemented method, comprising: collecting multiple items of data from one or more data sources arising from a power distribution network, wherein the multiple items of data comprise (i) one or more levels of temporal resolution and (ii) one or more levels of spatial resolution; determining a network topology of the power distribution network based on identification of one or more connections between each of multiple components within the power distribution network; and performing an optimization by iteratively: (a) generating a power flow estimate for one or more nodes within the power distribution network at a pre-determined level of spatio-temporal resolution, wherein said generating comprises applying a model to (i) the multiple items of collected data, (ii) the determined network topology, and (iii) one or more relations constraining the power flow estimate at the pre-determined level of spatio-temporal resolution; and (b) identifying a class of one or more models which characterize the power flow at the pre-determined level of spatio-temporal resolution; wherein the steps are carried out by at least one computing device.