Scalable Electrical Distribution Networks Planning for Medium and Low Voltage Considering Capacity on Transformers and Voltage Drop

Abstract

This paper shows a heuristic algorithm for design of a scalable and reliable distribution networks using real data. The database uses a geographic information system (GIS), which contains the coordinates of households, buildings, streets, parks, etc. The data is used by the algorithm to determine the optimal path for the primary network of medium voltage (MV), secondary network of low voltage (LV), location of transformers and inspection wells. Medium and low voltage distribution networks are underground; the conductors must be deployed along the streets. This algorithm computes the capacity that each transformer needs and the voltage drop in each branch. Finally, the software CYMDIST are used to analyze the model of the distribution system, in order to validate the results of the power flow analysis, line losses, transformers load capacity and verify that voltage profiles fulfill technical specifications.