A New Loss Minimization Model for Coordinated Network Reconfiguration, Capacitor Placement and DG Allocation Under Variable Loading Conditions

The minimization of losses through a simultaneous network reconfiguration (NR), capacitor placement (CP) and distributed generation (DG) allocation under varying loading conditions is a hybrid large-scale optimization problem, which requires high computational efforts, especially in large distribution systems. To reduce the complexity, load variations are not considered in most of the previous work in this area, although neglecting load variations may reduce accuracy and result in sub-optimal solutions. This paper presents a new and efficient approach for modelling load variations in a large-scale coordinated NR, CP and DG optimization problem. The presented modelling approach is illustrated on several test networks, demonstrating its accuracy, short computational times and simple implementation, compared to conventional peak demand based models and model with a detailed formulation of variable loading conditions.