Benefits of a risk-based comparison of electrical distribution system operation

This work examines the potential benefits of treating the comparison of the suitability of different modes of distribution network operation as a risk assessment problem, as a contrast to traditional measures of reliability. A methodology is proposed for determining the range and comparative likelihood of possible “costs” involved in choosing to operate a distribution network in a given manner. The methodology is applied in a distribution test system to produce a measure of risk to which the network is exposed under both normal and perturbed system operating conditions. The results will give an indication of some of the benefits of providing operators with a clearer understanding of the apparent risks faced in controlling a potentially active distribution network.