Distribution network reconfiguration to reduce losses and enhance reliability using binary gravitational search algorithm

The main aim of distribution companies is to reduce the cost of customer interruptions and energy losses in order to achieve optimal utilization of network. Network reconfiguration is an effective method to achieve this goal. This paper presents an algorithm for optimal network reconfiguration to reduce loss and improve reliability using Binary Gravitational Search Algorithm (BGSA) based on Graph Theory (GT). The cost function of optimization problem includes the overall annual cost of the network energy losses and Energy Not Supplied (ENS) to customers. The state enumeration method based on the Weibull- Markov stochastic model of the network components is used to assess the system reliability. The proposed method is performed on a real grid in province of Kerman, Iran. Simulation results show both loss reduction and reliability enhancement compared to the situation before reconfiguration.