Studies of parallelism in distribution networks served by different-source substations

Despite the fact that the distribution systems usually operate radially, there is the possibility of changing the topology by opening or closing the switching equipment [1]. This change can occur in two situations. In the first one, when one tries to optimize the configuration of the electric network, aiming to achieve lower voltage drop and loss indices, as well an increased reliability. In the second one, when one needs to transfer load from a feeder to another, as result of some contingency or a planned disconnection.In both situations, one has to take into account that multiple switchings in the networks can cause some disconnections for customers, during a short period of time, especially when the feeders are served by different-source substations. These interruptions cause undesirable energy continuity levels for customers, who are more demanding in relation to the electric power supply quality.This context has motivated this paper, whose proposal is the development of a methodology to analyze the technical feasibility of parallelisms in distribution networks by using the Alternative Transient Program (ATP), thus avoiding disconnections for customers. As a result, case studies in AES Sul's concession area, power distribution utility, will be presented.