Distribution network topology error correction using smart meter data analytics

This paper introduces an algorithm which was developed within BC Hydro with the purpose of detecting and correcting topology errors in existing GIS records of the distribution system. Starting with the distribution network topology information available in enterprise GIS, the proposed analytic approach uses smart meter data to detect wrongly connected customers in a transformer neighborhood based on the correlation factors and relative magnitude levels of hourly voltage profiles. Once a wrongly connected customer is identified, further analysis on correlation factors and relative voltage levels is done to correctly reposition this customer within the distribution network topology tree. Testing in a practical BC Hydro distribution system has achieved very encouraging results.