Optimal network reconfiguration for congestion management optimization in active distribution networks

Abstract

Recently, the distribution networks are working close to their physical device limits. When congestion takes place, distributed switches can be controlled to change their status in order to find a new optimal network configuration that solves that congestion. In this paper, a new methodology for congestion management by means of distributed network reconfiguration is presented. Switches and controllable voltage units such as PV units were used in the optimization process. The optimization process is guided by a weighted objective function that takes into account real power losses as well as operational limits of the power system under study. The methodology is tested in an Italian real power distribution system.