Electricity Distribution Network Planning Algorithm Based on Efficient Initial and Radial-to-Full Network Conversion

Abstract

Electricity distribution networks, the means of transporting electricity between the high voltage transmission networks, end users, local generation and storage, are an important part of today’s infrastructure. Rapid upgrading and development are required to cope with their more active role in enabling the integration of distributed generation and demand side management. To aid the laborious task of planning real distribution networks, an extensive network planning algorithm has been developed for use in a Network Information System (NIS). This paper focuses on two important aspects of the full algorithm: an efficient method to generate an initial network that is close to optimum, and the conversion of an underlying radial network into a fully or optimally backed-up and switched network. Backup refers to reserve connections that provide an alternative feed during contingencies. A reproducible initial network example and further examples for comparison are given for medium voltage (MV) distribution network topologies between primary (HV/MV) substations and secondary (MV/LV) substations. The secondary substations may supply low voltage (LV) network, industrial loads or even form the connection point to self-contained microgrids. The paper provides methodology that is specifically developed for planning distribution networks with a fully embedded treatment of reliability.