Switching Sequence Optimization for Service Restoration in Distribution Networks

This study considers the service restoration problem in medium voltage distribution networks that have a meshed topology but are operated radially. A mixed-integer linear program (MILP) is proposed to incorporate technical constraints as well as practical considerations from the Distribution System Operator (DSO). As a result, a sequence of switching steps that need to be done to restore the power supply to the customers is provided. The proposed methodology can assist the decision making of operators in the control center at the DSO. To demonstrate this, a real distribution network is used in a case study.