Optimal placement of tie points and sectionalizers in radial distribution network in presence of DGs considering load significance

To increase reliability in distribution networks, some switches are used in feeders that are normally open. These switches are called tie points. By utilizing tie points and sectionalizers, interruption time can be reduced for customers by providing some reconfigurations in network arrangement during failure occurrence. In distribution network, this process is called load restoration. Reliability in distribution network is significantly dependent on the pace of load restoration as well as the number of successful switching. Therefore, partial or totally powering of not supplied loads using sectionalizers and tie points can enhance systems reliability. Nowadays, distributed generation (DG) generators connected to distribution system are experiencing a considerable accession in size and number. Presence of a DG resource can cause some premeditated load islanding and consequently decrease the Energy Not Supplied (ENS). In this paper a genetic algorithm based method is proposed to determine accurate location of sectionalizers and tie points in order to minimize the cost of energy not supplied and the cost of switches and lines installation. This placement is aimed at restoration of maximum loads with utmost importance in a distribution network.