Distribution Network Reconfiguration Considering Feeder Length as a Reliability Index

Abstract

Power distribution network reconfiguration is achieved by opening or closing sectionalizes and tie switches to optimize a set of objectives. Active loss reduction is the objective in the reconfiguration of distribution networks since distribution networks usually record high levels of power losses. Reliability of the network is also an important objective. In this work, the objective function of the optimization is the reduction of power loss, improvement of line loading index and improvement of reliability. This paper seeks to shift the focus from the traditional objectives of passive (without distributed generations) networks to the security and reliability objectives. Since network reconfiguration is a planning problem, the work was performed to solve the problem for multi – period scenarios which spanned 24hrs. Genetic Algorithm was employed in this study and the simulation was performed in MATLAB software environment using a modified IEEE 69 Bus test system.