Products

GOLD for Loss-Min
A Global Optimal- Linked Computer Package for Distribution
Systems Loss Minimization via Network Reconfiguration
Version 3

Network (feeder) reconfiguration is the process of altering the topological structures of distribution feeders by changing the open/closed status of the sectionalizing and tie switches. During normal operating conditions, an important problem in configuration management is network reconfiguration.

As operating conditions change, networks are reconfigured for two purposes:

• To reduce the system real power losses
• To relieve overloads in the network

The former is referred to as network reconfiguration for loss reduction; the latter is known as load balancing. Another configuration management operation involves the restoration of service to as many customers as possible during a restorative state following a fault. This problem is called service restoration.

BSI has undertaken the network reconfiguration problem in a realistic way and developed a flexible problem formulation capable of handling it as either a single objective or a multi-objective, non-differentiable optimization problem with both equality and inequality constraints. In addition, BSI has successfully developed and implemented two effective methods for solving the network reconfiguration problem for three-phase unbalanced distribution networks. One method is based on a global optimization technique to achieve a globally optimal design. The other method is based on engineering heuristics to get a fast solution which is likely a sub-optimal solution. Together, these two methods can indeed provide a valuable and practical tool for solving the network reconfiguration problem.

BSI has developed an integrated computer package, GOLD for Loss-Min: (version 3) for distribution systems loss minimization via network reconfiguration with the following modeling capability and features.

Comprehensive Modeling Capability

• Primary power networks
• Three-phase transformers with off-nominal tap ratios as well as core and copper losses
• The different winding connections of three-phase transformers such as grounded wye-grounded wye connections grounded wye-delta connections, etc.
• Cogenerators
• Nonlinear load models
• Voltage sensitive load models for
  • single-phase
  • two-phase
  • three-phase loads
• Shunt capacitors
• Reactors

Package Features

• Solution algorithm based on the extended simulated annealing technique for global optimal loss minimization i.e., the best possible loss reduction
• Solution algorithm based on engineering heuristics for a quick, local optimal solution for loss minimization
• A computer package GOLD-Loss-Min (version 3) written in C++ language, which is currently being used by several industry users
• Numerical simulation results of GOLD-Loss-Min (version 3) on practical distribution networks with excellent results