New heuristic distribution network re-configuration method for overloading elimination

With the large scale development of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) more accurate and close to real-time load data are available. This enables the power flow calculation of a distribution network be more précised and trusted. System operators could have the much more comprehensive awareness of the real-time distribution network operating conditions, especially the identification of the locations and the degree of the line and equipment overload conditions. Utilizing the information provided by the AMI, a new combined heuristic logic network reconfiguration method for network overloading elimination, which fully takes the advantages of both depth-first and breath-first searching philosophy, has been presented in this paper. Two indices, Number of Switching Operations, Nr, and Load Transfer Index, LTI, have been created and a set of heuristic rules has been developed to achieve the reliable and operation practical reconfiguration solutions with the multiple objectives of balanced load transfer and minimum switch operations. The case studies demonstrated the feasibility and the operational advantages of the proposed method.