Low voltage distribution system planning using diversified demand curves

In this work, the problem of low voltage distribution system planning is solved using diversified peak demand to estimate nodal power injection from the number of users and the diversity curves in demand. The problem is formulated as a model of mixed integer nonlinear programming. To solve the problem, a tabu search algorithm is used. It considers location and design of new and existing elements, phase balance, and system losses. Additionally, it takes into account the relocation of distribution transformers considering existing, new, and in store ones, installation of new primary network to feed distribution transformers, and removing existing elements. The methodology is applied in a Colombian distribution system using three demand scenarios: average demand curves, cumulative maximum demand, and diversity in demand. The results support the validity of the methodology proposed in this article.