Loss and reliability optimization for power distribution system operation

This study presents an optimization method that combines simultaneously the reliability and the efficiency of radial power distribution systems (RDS), minimizing active energy losses, through a process of network reconfiguration. The study is based on the failure analysis on network branches, with a special concern regarding the protection system response to faults and the service restoration procedures, during the emergency state. A non-sequential Monte Carlo simulation based on the branch reliability was used to evaluate reliability of the network configurations. Due to a large number of possible configurations and the need of an efficient search, the optimization is made through an improved genetic algorithm (IGA). The method analyses the RDS considering in a first step, the absence of investment, and in a second step, the possibility of placing a limited number of new tie-switches in certain branches, according to the definitions made by a decision maker. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is demonstrated through the analysis of a 69 bus RDS and by comparison against other reported methodologies.

► We combine simultaneously reliability and efficiency of power distribution systems. ► These goals are achieved through a process of network reconfiguration. ► We propose an improved reliability model considering the emergency state. ► Optimization is made through an improved genetic algorithm developed by the authors. ► The importance of combining reliability and efficiency is demonstrated.