Optimal reconfiguration of radial MV networks with load profiles in the presence of renewable energy based decentralized generation

Abstract The main concern of integration the renewable energy into the supply grid, in Germany, is to reach about 35% of the total generation by 2030. In this case, a large amount of the produced power will be provided as Decentralized Generation (DG). Therefore, the future distribution networks with the high penetration of DG power have to be planned and operated in order to improve their efficiency. Thus, the current study proposes a new methodology for reconfiguration of radial MV networks with the existence of renewable energy based DG units. Since the main concept of the proposed methodology is to minimize the energy loss, definition of a typical network, based on a real life urban network, will be handled. In this regards, the optimization algorithm was formulated using a combination of Tabu Search (TS) and Branch Exchange (BE). The utilized algorithm was based on C++ and NEPLAN – power system analysis software. Whereas, the load profiles of residential and commercial loads were used through the implementation of the algorithm. Two phases were conducted in the implementation of the proposed algorithm. In the first phase, the DG power has been assumed to be constant at different percentages of the rated power of each unit. In the second phase, the DG with generation profiles has been considered. At that end, the current methodology demonstrated a high performance in minimizing the energy loss, improving the voltage profiles and relieving the bottlenecks in the lines.