Optimization of Recloser Placement to Improve Reliability by Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

In this paper, a simple method for placing an optimal number of recloser is presented. The algorithm is solved using genetic algorithm as the optimization method. The majority of outage events experienced by customers are due to electrical distribution failures. Increasing network reliability is a necessity in order to reduce interruption events. Distribution network automation can trim down outage events and increase system reliability. Network automation has to be done using optimization approaches. Genetic Algorithm (GA) is a relatively new technique used in power systems optimization problems. Distribution network automation is one of the aspects tackled using GA. However, the methodologies used to improve the reliability of radial distribution feeders are reviewed. The reliability improvement is demonstrated for typical distribution feeder layouts determined. The method enjoys the simplicity of configure uration, accuracy of the results and reduction of the time consuming. The obtained results also show the applicability of the algorithm.