Multi-fault service restoration in distribution networks considering the operating mode of distributed generation

•This article presents an electric power service restoration model for distribution networks.•The model takes into account the distributed generation in the network.•The candidate topologies were encoded to evaluate DG in two alternatives, operating in island mode or synchronized to the system.•The optimization model is based on genetic algorithms (GA), using the fundamental loops of the network as the topologies selection mechanism.•The codification used, restrict the search space of possible solutions and even simplifying the problem in the case of multiple system faults.

This article presents an electric power service restoration model for distribution networks considering distributed generation (DG). The optimization model is based on genetic algorithms (GA), using the fundamental loops of the network as the topology selection mechanism. The algorithm was tested on IEEE test systems with 17 and 33 buses. Results show the advantages of DG in the restoration process, the best operating mode of the DG and the effectiveness of the study technique.