Network reconfiguration for the DG-integrated unbalanced distribution system

Distribution system reconfiguration is a complex combinatorial optimisation problem. Finding a globally optimal solution to this problem in a short span of time is a challenging task. Two different network reconfiguration methodologies, namely a look-up table-based algorithm and a Pareto-optimisation-based algorithm have been discussed. Power loss minimisation and reliability maximisation are taken as objectives for both the methodologies when the system is in the normal operating state. The same algorithms also work for maximum service restoration under the post-fault condition. For reliability assessment in the presence of distributed generators (DGs), an algorithm is also proposed using the probabilistic model of components. In the other algorithm, reconfiguration is performed in the presence of DGs using a look-up table. The look-up table is prepared with the help of the proposed Pareto-optimisation-based reconfiguration algorithm to train the system for various loading conditions. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed methods are demonstrated using the IEEE 34- and IEEE 123-bus unbalanced radial distribution systems under normal and faulty conditions. The algorithms are also tested on a 13-bus practical distribution system in the field.