Optimum balance between structural and operating investments for the development of radial MV networks

Quality can be improved by upgrading the networks with major investments and operating devices. A method can be found to locate the ideal balance between structural and operating investments, if the duties of the new equipment are clearly defined and if a value can be given to customer inconvenience resulting from poor quality. This process comprises two stages for which EDF has developed several calculation models. The GENARBRE model is used to build up a library of fundamental laws on arborescent structures. The OSCAR program is a static model giving the main structural characteristics; density of HV/MV substations, number of feeders, dimensions of feeders for a given fixed level consumption. SIERRA is an arborescent system development simulator used to select the upgrading methods and dates over a long period