A mixed integer linear programming based approach for optimal placement of different types of automation devices in distribution networks

This paper presents a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) based approach for determining the optimal number, type and location of automation devices to be installed in the network by considering different types of devices simultaneously (remotely controlled circuit breakers/reclosers, sectionalizing switches, remotely supervised fault passage indicators). Simultaneously, it determines the new (optimal) locations of the automation devices that already exist in the network. In determining the most effective network automation scenario, the proposed approach takes into account the outage cost of consumers/producers due to momentary, short-term, and long-term interruptions, the commonly used network reliability indices (SAIFI, SAIDI, MAIFI, and ASIDI) as well as the cost of automation devices and the cost of crews. It provides the best network automation scenario in distribution systems if the network reliability indices are used for measuring the distribution system reliability, if cost of interruptions is defined to all consumers/producers, and if both aforementioned approaches (criteria) are used.