Evaluating the Shortest Path for Laying Distribution Network in a Hilly Area

Rural areas in the hilly terrains are unevenly located at different elevations. Digital elevation map (DEM), derived using ArcGIS, presents a platform to depict the locations consisting of load/generating centers in the selected hilly area. DEM thus generated is used to find shortest distance for implementing distribution network in the area. The shortest path between load/ generating centers in the area are evaluated using bio-geography based optimization (BBO) and the results are compared with Dijkstra algorithm (DA). Finally, shortest path to implement distribution network consisting of standalone hybrid energy system is generated and is represented in the DEM.