Load type impact on distribution system reconfiguration

An analysis establishing the significant impact of load type, and problem reformulation have been carried out for distribution reconfiguration problem. The process of changing one radial configuration to other using tie lines, as and when required, to meet a particular objective is called reconfiguration. Simulation study on a practical test system has been carried out to show the quantitative significance of load models in reconfiguration studies. A weighted sum of objective functions representing operational cost of the distribution system is investigated in such a scenario. The paper highlights the importance of considering voltage dependence of loads in reconfiguration problem. It is shown that if the loads are not modelled as voltage dependent and instead modelled as constant power, a system configuration may result yielding higher system intakes and higher financial losses.

► Quantitative significance of load models in reconfiguration of practical system.
► Reconfiguration for operating cost of the distribution system is investigated.
► Omission of load models leads to erroneous formulation of reconfiguration problem.
► Minimizing the system losses is not same as minimizing the system intakes.
► Load model can significantly affect the optimality in reconfiguration studies.