Optimal number, type and location of remotely controlled and supervised devices in distribution networks

This paper presents the mixed integer linear programming model for determining optimal number, type and location of remotely controlled and supervised devices in distribution networks in the presence of distributed generators. The proposed model enables consideration of a number of different devices simultaneously (remotely controlled circuit breakers/reclosers, sectionalizing switches, remotely supervised fault passage indicators) along with all costs and benefits relevant for determining the best network automation strategy. The obtained numerical results emphasize the importance of consideration of different types of automation devices simultaneously and show that the proposed approach has a potential to improve the process of determining of the best automation strategy in real life distribution networks.